The State Flag of New York

New York holds a distinctive place in history. One of the original colonies and one of the first states admitted to the newly formed United States, essential battles of the Revolutionary War were decided here. A century later and the state became the hub of the largest immigration wave in the world. The state flag, adopted first in 1778, reflects that proud history

Liberty and justice

Each element of the flag contains meaning, but none as significant as the appearance of two female figures. The female personification of Liberty stands on one side of the flag, and under one of her feet is a crown, which represents the expulsion of the British monarchy. Opposite her, the blindfolded Justice holds a set of scales to show her impartial nature.

The ships, globe and motto

In the center of the flag, two ships tread a calm sea. Because New York sat strategically on the St. Lawrence Seaway and Hudson River, along with an expansive coast, both foreign and domestic commerce in the US centered here. Each ship represents these two forms of trade. Above that, an eagle grasps a globe in its talons, showing the world the might of New Yorkers. The motto "Excelsior" means "upwards" or "onwards." The idea of progress was essential to New York, even two hundred years ago.

Changes

Although the flag originally flew in a tinted yellow, New York adopted a blue background in 1901. Although several different reasons were given for this change, New Yorkers largely accepted it.

New York, one of the most populated states in the US and the center of economic trade, demonstrates a proud history of strength, fortitude and independence in the flag, one of the first flown in the US.