The history behind the American Flag feels like it should be something every American should know. Here are some commonly asked questions about the American flag.
How many stars are on the American Flag?
There are 50 stars on the American Flag. The 50 stars represent each state in the United States. There have been multiple variations of the American flags because as a new state would be added, a star would be added. On the ballot in November, Puerto Ricans will vote to decide if they will become the 51st state of the United States or if they will gain their Independence from the US. Who knows, could there be 51 states by the end of the year, calling for a new flag? How would the stars be arranged to fit 51 stars?
How many stripes are on the American Flag?
The 13 stripes on the American Flag represent the original 13 colonies. The original colonies are, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. The number of stripes will always stay the same, as the number of original colonies will never change.
What is the blue square on the American Flag?
The blue square on the American Flag is called a canton.
Does the American Flag have to be bigger than other flags flying?
No, the American Flag can be the same size as the other flags as long as the US flag is in a prominent position.
Does my American Flag have to be lit?
Yes, according to the flag code, if you are flying your flag at night the flag should be illuminated.
Are there flag police?
While there is a flag code, there is no law enforcement when it comes to the American Flag. There is no federal punishment for citizens who don’t follow the flag code.
How do you hang the American Flag on the wall?
When the American Flag is hanging on the wall you always want the blue canton field to be on the left. See below for examples.
Is my American Flag made in the USA?
An easy way to tell if your flag is made in the USA is if there is a tag or stamp that says “Made in the U.S.A”. Another way to tell is finding the manufacturer or retailer then looking at FMAA and seeing if they are certified. If the retailer is not on the list, it does not mean they don’t sell American flags made in the USA, but they are not a certified retailer. If the manufacturer is not on the list, they do not make their flags in America. All US based American flag manufacturers are certified and on the list. Learn more here.
We are a certified dealer by FMAA and can answer any questions you may have about the American flag!
