The State Flag of Missouri

The Missouri state flag bears a rich history and symbolism for a state that is also steeped in intrigue. It is easy to think of Missouri as nothing more than the heart of the midwest, but this 69,000 square mile plot of land has a very complicated past.

The history of Missouri

Missouri was originally part of the Louisiana purchase during the presidency of Thomas Jefferson. It shares borders with more states than any other state in the union (eight), except Tennessee, which also shares borders with eight states. It is the 24th state, and was originally intended as a slave state in the Missouri Compromise.

The flag of Missouri

The state flag of Missouri was adopted nearly a hundred years after Missouri became a state. It was designed by Mrs. Marie Elizabeth Oliver, and features the eternal words uttered by George Washington "United We Stand, Divided We Fall." It shows a crest with two grizzly bears holding up a shield centered on a field of red, white and blue stripes.

The symbols of the flag

The imagery represented on the state flag of Missouri is one of the more complicated in the entire United States. The right section of the crest represents the United States, while the left section has a moon that represents the new state of Missouri. The grizzly bear on the left side is meant as a symbol of courage for the people of Missouri. The whole crest is ringed by 24 stars, representing the 24 states of 1821.

The detail and intricate nature of the Missouri flag is appropriate for a place that is in the heartland of the country. Like people of Missouri, it is brave, proud, and shows a patriotic love of country.