What Is the American Flag Called in Standard American English?
The official name of the American flag is the Flag of the United States of America. It is also commonly referred to as the Stars and Stripes, Old Glory, or simply the American flag.
The flag is a rectangular piece of cloth with 13 horizontal stripes, alternating between red and white, and a blue canton with 50 white stars. The 13 stripes represent the 13 original colonies that declared independence from Great Britain in 1776, while the 50 stars represent the 50 states that make up the United States today.
The American flag is a potent symbol of American patriotism and pride. It is flown on government buildings, schools, and private homes throughout the country. It is also used in military ceremonies and other patriotic events.
History of the American Flag
The first American flag was created in 1777 by Betsy Ross, a seamstress from Philadelphia. Ross is said to have sewn the flag according to a design by George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and John Adams.
The original flag had 13 stars and 13 stripes. However, as new states were added to the Union, more stars were added to the flag. The current 50-star flag was adopted in 1960.
Design of the American Flag
The American flag is a rectangular piece of cloth with a length-to-width ratio of 1.9:1. The flag is divided into 13 horizontal stripes, alternating between red and white. The stripes are equal in width, and the overall width of the flag is twice the height.
The canton (the blue field in the upper left corner of the flag) is square and equal to one-quarter of the overall width of the flag. The 50 stars are arranged in nine horizontal rows of six stars each. The stars are white and have five points.
Symbolism of the American Flag
The American flag is a potent symbol of American patriotism and pride. The 13 stripes represent the 13 original colonies that declared independence from Great Britain in 1776. The 50 stars represent the 50 states that make up the United States today. The blue canton represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice. The white stars represent hope, purity, and innocence. The red stripes represent valor and sacrifice.
Display of the American Flag
The American flag should be displayed in a respectful manner. The flag should be flown from a staff or pole, and it should be illuminated at night. The flag should never be flown upside down or in a torn or dirty condition.
When the flag is displayed vertically, the blue canton should be at the top. When the flag is displayed horizontally, the blue canton should be at the left.
The American Flag in Culture
The American flag is a ubiquitous symbol of American culture. It is featured in countless works of art, literature, and music. The flag is also used in advertising, marketing, and other commercial applications.
The American flag is a powerful symbol of American patriotism and pride. It is a reminder of the country’s history, values, and ideals.
FAQ
What is the official name of the American flag?
The official name of the American flag is the Flag of the United States of America.
What are the other common names for the American flag?
The American flag is also commonly referred to as the Stars and Stripes, Old Glory, or simply the American flag.
What are the dimensions of the American flag?
The American flag is a rectangular piece of cloth with a length-to-width ratio of 1.9:1. The flag is divided into 13 horizontal stripes, alternating between red and white. The stripes are equal in width, and the overall width of the flag is twice the height.
What is the symbolism of the American flag?
The 13 stripes represent the 13 original colonies that declared independence from Great Britain in 1776. The 50 stars represent the 50 states that make up the United States today. The blue canton represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice. The white stars represent hope, purity, and innocence. The red stripes represent valor and sacrifice.
How should the American flag be displayed?
The American flag should be displayed in a respectful manner. The flag should be flown from a staff or pole, and it should be illuminated at night. The flag should never be flown upside down or in a torn or dirty condition.
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