The American Flag

History of the American Flag

Flags of the American Revolution

The history of the earliest flags adopted by our colonial and Revolutionary forebears, including the Pine Tree "Appeal to Heaven" flag, Fort Moultrie flag, Culpeper flag, and Rhode Island Regiment flag.

Gadsden Flag History

How did the rattlesnake become a symbol of American independence? Here's the fascinating history of the most famous Dont Tread on Me flag.

First Navy Jack History

The story of the second most famous Dont Tread on Me rattlesnake flag. This flag is especially popular right now, since the U.S. Navy has ordered all ships to fly the First Navy Jack during the War on Terrorism.

Grand Union American Flag

The first American flag to have any resemblance to the present Stars and Stripes.

Stars and Stripes

The origin of the stars and stripes.

The Number of Stars

Here's how we came to add one star for each state, but leave 13 stripes to symbolize the original colonies.

Betsy Ross Flag

Betsy Ross and her 13-star American flag.

Star Spangled Banner

The Star Spangled Banner created by Mary Pickersgill that flew over Fort McHenry and inspired Francis Scott Key.

Other American Historical Flags

More on The Fort Moultrie, Green Mountain Boys, Rhode Island Regiment, Commodore Perry, Bennington, and Cavalry Guidon flags.