The American Flag: A Symbol of National Unity and Division
The American flag, with its iconic red, white, and blue stripes and stars, is a powerful symbol of national pride and unity. However, there is one aspect of the flag that has been the subject of debate for many years: which side should be on the left when it is displayed horizontally?
Historical Origins of the Flag’s Display
The earliest known instance of a flag being displayed with the stars on the left dates back to the American Revolutionary War. In 1777, the Continental Army flew a flag with the stars arranged in a circle, with the leftmost star representing the state of New Hampshire. This arrangement was adopted by the U.S. Navy in 1818 and has remained the standard for naval vessels ever since.
In the early days of the United States, there was no official protocol for displaying the flag on land. However, by the late 19th century, the custom had developed of displaying the flag with the stars on the right when it was hung vertically. This practice was based on the idea that the stars should be closer to the observer’s heart.
The Modern Debate
In the early 20th century, the U.S. Army adopted the practice of displaying the flag with the stars on the left when it was hung horizontally. This decision was based on the belief that the flag should be "advancing" into the wind, with the stars leading the way.
However, in 1924, the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) published a pamphlet that stated that the flag should always be displayed with the stars on the right. The DAR’s argument was based on the idea that the stars represent the original 13 colonies, and that they should therefore be placed closest to the flagpole.
The debate over the flag’s display continued throughout the 20th century, with different organizations and individuals advocating for different positions. In 1976, the U.S. Congress passed a law that stated that the flag should be displayed with the stars on the left when it is hung horizontally. However, this law was not binding on private citizens or organizations.
Today, there is still no universally accepted answer to the question of which side of the flag should be on the left when it is displayed horizontally. Some people believe that the flag should always be displayed with the stars on the right, while others believe that it should always be displayed with the stars on the left. Still others believe that the flag should be displayed with the stars on the side that is closest to the observer.
The Significance of the Flag’s Display
Regardless of which side of the flag is on the left, it is important to remember that the flag is a symbol of unity and national pride. It is a reminder of the sacrifices that have been made by countless Americans to defend our freedom and our way of life.
When we fly the flag, we are not only showing our patriotism, but we are also expressing our commitment to the values that our country represents. These values include liberty, justice, equality, and democracy.
The flag is a powerful symbol, and it is important to be mindful of how we display it. By following the proper protocol for displaying the flag, we can help to ensure that it continues to be a symbol of unity and pride for all Americans.
FAQ
Q: Which side of the flag should be on the left when it is displayed horizontally?
A: There is no universally accepted answer to this question. Some people believe that the flag should always be displayed with the stars on the right, while others believe that it should always be displayed with the stars on the left. Still others believe that the flag should be displayed with the stars on the side that is closest to the observer.
Q: What is the historical basis for displaying the flag with the stars on the left?
A: The earliest known instance of a flag being displayed with the stars on the left dates back to the American Revolutionary War. In 1777, the Continental Army flew a flag with the stars arranged in a circle, with the leftmost star representing the state of New Hampshire. This arrangement was adopted by the U.S. Navy in 1818 and has remained the standard for naval vessels ever since.
Q: What is the historical basis for displaying the flag with the stars on the right?
A: In the early days of the United States, there was no official protocol for displaying the flag on land. However, by the late 19th century, the custom had developed of displaying the flag with the stars on the right when it was hung vertically. This practice was based on the idea that the stars should be closer to the observer’s heart.
Q: Is there a law that governs the display of the flag?
A: Yes. In 1976, the U.S. Congress passed a law that stated that the flag should be displayed with the stars on the left when it is hung horizontally. However, this law is not binding on private citizens or organizations.
Q: What is the proper way to display the flag?
A: The flag should be displayed flat, with the stars on the left when it is hung horizontally. The flag should never be displayed upside down or in a way that is disrespectful.
