The American Flag Before Alaska and Hawaii: A Historical Journey
The American flag, a symbol of unity, patriotism, and national pride, has undergone several transformations throughout its history. Before Alaska and Hawaii became states in 1959, the flag featured a different number of stars, reflecting the growing nation’s changing borders. This article provides an in-depth exploration of the American flag’s evolution prior to the inclusion of these two states.
Origins and the First Flag
The seeds of the American flag were sown during the Revolutionary War when colonists raised banners declaring independence from British rule. The first official flag, known as the "Grand Union Flag" or "Continental Colors," was adopted by George Washington in 1775. It displayed 13 alternating red and white stripes, representing the 13 original colonies, and the Union Jack in the canton.
The Betsy Ross Myth and the 13-Star Flag
According to legend, the first American flag was sewn by Betsy Ross, a Philadelphia seamstress. However, historical evidence casts doubt on this narrative. The first documented 13-star flag was raised in 1777 at Fort Stanwix in upstate New York. It became the official national flag with the passage of the Flag Resolution in 1777.
The 15-Star Flag: Expansion Westward
In 1794, Kentucky became the 15th state of the Union. The 15-star flag was adopted on May 1, 1795, to reflect this milestone. It remained in use for 23 years, witnessing the Louisiana Purchase and the War of 1812.
The 20-Star Flag: The Golden Era
The 19th century marked a period of rapid westward expansion. In 1819, the United States acquired Florida from Spain, bringing the total number of states to 20. The 20-star flag was introduced on July 4, 1819. It flew over the nation during the "Golden Era," which included the Mexican-American War and the California Gold Rush.
The 21-Star Flag: The Lone Star State
In 1845, Texas joined the Union as the 28th state. The 28th star was added to the flag, creating the 21-star flag. It was the first time a star had been placed in the sixth row.
The 24-Star Flag: The Oregon Trail
In 1846, Iowa and Florida were admitted to the Union, bringing the total number of states to 24. The 24-star flag was adopted on July 4, 1846. It witnessed the end of the Mexican-American War and the opening of the Oregon Trail.
The 25-Star Flag: The Mexican Cession
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ended the Mexican-American War in 1848 and resulted in the United States acquiring vast territories in the Southwest. In 1849, California was admitted to the Union, and the 25-star flag was created.
The 27-Star Flag: The Gadsden Purchase
In 1853, the United States purchased a strip of land from Mexico, known as the Gadsden Purchase. This territory was incorporated into the New Mexico Territory, leading to the creation of the 27-star flag in 1857.
The 29-Star Flag: Bleeding Kansas
In 1861, Kansas became the 34th state of the Union. The 29-star flag reflected this addition. However, just a week after its introduction, the Civil War broke out, tearing the nation apart.
The 31-Star Flag: The Reunited States
After the Civil War and the ratification of the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery, the Union was restored. In 1868, Arkansas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Louisiana, Florida, and Alabama were readmitted to the Union, increasing the number of states to 37. The 31-star flag was created to represent this milestone.
The 32-Star Flag: The Reconstruction Era
In 1877, Colorado was admitted to the Union as the 38th state. The 32-star flag was introduced, reflecting this expansion. The Reconstruction Era marked a period of rebuilding and reconciliation following the Civil War.
The 34-Star Flag: The Gilded Age
In 1889, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, and Washington joined the Union, bringing the total number of states to 42. The 34-star flag was adopted, symbolizing the nation’s continued westward expansion during the Gilded Age.
The 36-Star Flag: The New Century
In 1908, Oklahoma became the 46th state of the Union. The 36-star flag was created to reflect this addition. It flew over the nation during the early 20th century, witnessing events such as the Wright brothers’ first flight and the start of World War I.
The 38-Star Flag: The Roaring Twenties
In 1912, Arizona and New Mexico were admitted to the Union, making the total number of states 48. The 38-star flag was introduced, becoming the final flag before Alaska and Hawaii became states. It represented the nation during the Roaring Twenties and the Great Depression.
The 49-Star Flag: Alaska’s Journey
In 1959, Alaska became the 49th state of the Union. The 49-star flag was adopted on July 4, 1959. The star was placed in the upper left corner, breaking the traditional row pattern.
The 50-Star Flag: Hawaii’s Inclusion
Less than two months later, on August 21, 1959, Hawaii joined the Union as the 50th state. The 50-star flag was created, adding a star to the top-right corner. It has remained the official flag of the United States to this day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why did the American flag change over time?
A: The flag changed to reflect the growing number of states joining the Union. Each star represents a state, and as the nation expanded, so did the number of stars on the flag.
Q: Who designed the first American flag?
A: The identity of the person who designed the first American flag is not certain. However, Betsy Ross is often credited with its creation.
Q: What is the significance of the colors on the American flag?
A: The 13 red and white stripes represent the original 13 colonies. The blue canton symbolizes the Union. The stars represent the 50 states of the United States.
Q: Why is there a star in the upper left corner of the American flag?
A: Since 1959, the star in the upper left corner of the flag represents Alaska, the 49th state.
References
- "The American Flag: A History of Our National Banner" by Melvin B. Fowler
- "The Story of the Stars and Stripes" by John A. Garraty
- "The History of the American Flag" by H.P. Davis
- "The National Archives" (https://www.archives.gov/exhibits/american-flag-evolution)
- "The Smithsonian National Museum of American History" (https://americanhistory.si.edu/blog/american-flags-history-evolution)
