Posts Tagged ‘betsy ross flag’

The meaning of the colors and design of the American flag

The meaning of the colors as of the American flag as well as the design came from the Great Seal and it was Charles Thompson, the Secretary of the Continental Congress who commenced the specific representation of each color. This information was also taken from a book published in 1977 by the House of Representatives.

Here are some pointers of what the colors and design signify:

  • The color white on the vertical stripes signify purity and innocence. The red color means hardiness and valor. The blue broad band beneath the white stars denotes the color of the chief which implies vigilance, perseverance and justice.
  • Stars symbolize the heavens and at the same time, the divine goal that man aspired to reach from the very start. Stripes symbolize the rays of light that are coming from the sun. This will be discussed further on What the American Flag Stripes Represent.
  • A gold fringe can be placed on the flag but it is optional. It is considered to be an ‘honorable enrichment’ and was used by the US Army. A quote that further explains that is found on the book called “So Proudly We Hail, the History of the United States Flag” this is written by William R. Furlong and Byron McCandless and was taken from the Smithsonian Institute Press 1981. According to the Institute of Heraldry, this is acceptable for various organizations that use the American flag. However, it is better if the fringe will be placed on indoor flags because they will deteriorate quickly when they are placed outside.

The flag could have a gold trim but it is commonly used on ceremonial flags that are used indoors for special services in a military setting. This one probably has no specific importance but its use should be in compliance with the applicable flag codes and laws.

As the colors of the American flag might vary in an individual’s standpoint and yet it will never lose its essence after decades and even centuries of its existence. It lies in the hearts of the ones who have given it due respect and importance and eventually would have to pass it on the younger generation, and re-live how it was once cherished by their Forefathers who have fought hard to win the battle to acquire the liberty that now has become a privilege of every American.