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Flag of United States

The "Stars and Stripes"

North America
349M
1960
Flag of United States
US | 10:19

Official Palette

Symbolism

The 50 stars represent the 50 states of the Union, and the 13 stripes represent the original thirteen colonies. Red symbolizes hardiness and valor, white symbolizes purity and innocence, and blue symbolizes vigilance, perseverance, and justice.

History

The current 50-star design was created by 17-year-old Robert G. Heft in 1958 as a school project (he received a B- for it). It was officially adopted on July 4, 1960, after Hawaii joined the Union.

Construction

The flag has a unique 10:19 aspect ratio. It features 13 horizontal stripes (7 red, 6 white) and a blue canton containing 50 white, five-pointed stars.

Color Meanings

red: Hardiness and valor
white: Purity and innocence
blue: Vigilance, perseverance, and justice

Country Facts

Population
349M

57% of North America

Capital
Washington, D.C.
Languages
English
Continent
North America
Landlocked
No
ISO 3166-1
US

Flag Identification

Adopted
July 4, 1960
Designer
Robert G. Heft
Proportions

10:19 (≈1.900)

1019
Total Colors
3
Key Symbols
Canton, Stars

Influences

British Red Ensign
Great Union Flag

Flags with resemblance

Visually close designs — compare colors and emblems, or try similarities mode.

Related flags

Flag Protocol

  • The flag should be illuminated if flown at night
  • It should never touch the ground or anything beneath it
  • When the flag is so worn it is no longer fit for display, it should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning

Practice

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