247_7-2013.pdf

American Flags Through History There are fewer objects that spark such passionate emotion as the various American flags through history.

A Brief Overview of American Flags Through History When you consider that the history of the flag stretches just over 200 years, it's amazing to consider the impact this symbol of freedom has had on people throughout the world. Whether it was the sight of the battered flag in the middle of battle, as described by Francis Scott Key, or the vision of the American flag carried through the European theater of war, bringing freedom and liberty to war-torn countries and imprisoned Jews the flag is easily one of the most powerful symbols of liberty and freedom in the world today.

The History of the U.S. Flag The very first flag was called the "Grand Union Flag," raised on January 1, 1776, by General Washington at his headquarters. Another early flag, which many patriots know and recognize (seen on many biker jackets) is the rattlesnake and the motto "Don't Tread on Me ."

On June 14, 1777, the Congress passed the "Flag Act" which stated that the new United States flag would consist of thirteen stripes, red and white, and thirteen stars for the 13 colonies of the Union. There were some variations in the layout, and no one is certain who created the first. Many history books tell students about the legend of Betsy Ross, but the truth is, no one knows whether or not the story is true. In fact many historians suspect that the design for the first flag was created by Francis Hopkinson of the Continental Congress.

Two stars and two stripes were added to the flag by 1792 in order to incorporate the two new states of Vermont and Kentucky. The 15 stars and stripes flag was the one viewed above the battlefield by Francis Scott Key, who wrote the "Star-Spangled Banner ."

Finally, in 1818, Congress passed another Act, which set the stripes back to 13, and made the stars equivalent to the number of states. The last star was finally added on July 4, 1960, when Hawaii became a U.S. state.

Don't Tread on Me Flag?

The "Don't Tread on Me Flag" is a little-known part of American history.

Also called the "Gadsden Flag," it is the ultimate symbol of American independence and freedom from dictatorship and oppressive rule.

The symbol first appeared throughout the colonies in 1775, and it consisted of the American timber rattlesnake, coiled and ready to strike.

According to American historians, the symbol was painted on some drums carried by the first Marines who accompanied the first U.S. Navy on its