Informative Essay: The Evolution Of The American Flag

Words: 588
Pages: 3

When you see the American, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Is it war? Is it a relative that has served in the military? For me, the American flag represents freedom and sacrifice. You can tell by the way we treat our flag that we hold it dear to our hearts. Before any sporting event we face our flag, put our hand over our heart, and sing the national anthem. For me, this is a great time of reflection on what our flag stands for.
Let’s first look back at the very beginning of the American flag. The origins of the American flag date back to 1777. On June 14, 1777, in order to establish an official flag for the new nation, the Continental Congress passed the first Flag Act: “Resolved, That the flag of the United States be made of thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new Constellation.” (USA Flag) Between 1777 and 1960 Congress has passed different acts that have changed the look of the flag. The meaning behind the flag has changed since
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Did you ever wonder why the flag is red, white, and blue? While the flag’s colors did not have a specific meaning at the time, the colors were significant for the Great Seal of 1782. The white stripes stand for purity and innocence. The red stripes stand for valor, bravery, and blood shed by American troops that have fought and died defending our country. The blue signifies vigilance, perseverance, and justice. (USFlag.org) You may be wondering what the significance of the stars are. Stars are considered a symbol of the heavens. Of course the stars also represent the 50 states that are part of the United States. The thirteen stripes represent the thirteen original colonies. But, to me the flag also represents patriotism. It shows the pride one can have for their country and what we have fought for. It shows determination and a refusal to just sit idly