by Brenda Lee Chew

Created on: June 15, 2009

The Origin of the American Flag

The American Flag, a symbol of our freedom. It is a sign of our nation's unity. Throughout the years there have been numerous changes to both the design and dimensions of the flag of our nation. The very first flag that flew in representation of our nation was the Grand Union. This flag had 13 stripes with the British Union Jack in the top left hand corner. It was a symbol of the birth of a new nation breaking away from British rule over the thirteen colonies in the new world. General George Washington ordered the raising of this flag over his armies at the Battle in Boston.

It has been the common belief that Betsy Ross sewed the first flag of the United States. She is credited with the sewing of the flag. However, the actual design is a matter of debate. There is no proof that Ms. Ross actually designed the flag. It is a well known fact that she and George Washington were friends and that she was reputed to be a very good seamstress. It is thought that Washington commissioned Ms. Ross to sew the very first flag that flew over his headquarters after the war.

After the war, when America had its freedom from Britain, a new flag act was passed by the first continental congress. This act stated that the new flag of this new nation would consist of thirteen alternating red and white stripes with a blue union with thirteen stars in the shape of a new constellation. Throughout the following years, Congress passed many acts which enabled for the expansion of our flag. Our current design was final in the year 1960. It stated that there would be thirteen alternating red and white stripes which represent the thirteen original colonies of our nation. There is a blue union with fifty white stars which represents the states in our nation today. The red symbolizes valor and hardiness. The white is a symbol of innocence and purity. And the blue symbolizes justice, vigilance, and perseverance. Our country's history is full of each of these qualities which are repeatedly demonstrated throughout the course of this country's life.

The flag of the United States of America has had a long history. It has survived over a period of 200 years and two world wars. It has been a symbol of unity and pride. It has also been a symbol of rebellion, when we fought the British for our freedom. When the 9/11 bombings took place, the flag was a symbol of hope and pride. When everything else was crumbled, the flag flew dirty and tattered among the rubble. The American flag is our nation. No one said it better than Henry Ward Beecher in 1861, Our flag carries American ideas, American history and American feelings. It is not a painted rag. It is a whole national history. It is the Constitution. It is the Government. It is the emblem of the sovereignty of the people. It is the NATION.

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