Who Really Made the American Flag?
The American flag, an iconic symbol of the United States, is a testament to the nation’s birth and ideals. However, the identity of the individual who created the first official flag has remained a subject of debate for centuries.
The Betsey Ross Myth
The most widely held belief is that Betsy Ross, a Philadelphia seamstress, sewed the first American flag in 1776. This legend originated in 1870, when Ross’s grandson, William J. Canby, claimed that she had created the flag at the request of George Washington, Robert Morris, and George Ross.
Canby’s account presented a romantic and patriotic narrative, which resonated with the public at a time when American nationalism was on the rise. Betsy Ross quickly became the celebrated "Mother of the American Flag."
Historical Evidence
However, historical evidence has cast doubt on the veracity of the Betsy Ross myth. No contemporary records or accounts support her involvement in the creation of the first flag.
George Washington’s diary contains no mention of Ross or the flag. Additionally, there are conflicting stories about the design and materials used in the flag, which further undermines Ross’s claim.
Francis Hopkinson: The First Official Designer
In 1943, historian Whitney Smith proposed an alternative theory, attributing the design of the first American flag to Francis Hopkinson, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.
Hopkinson’s diary entries from 1777 indicate that he was commissioned by the Continental Marine Committee to design a flag for the navy. He submitted several proposals, including one that aligned with the eventual design of the American flag.
The Continental Congress approved Hopkinson’s design in June 1777, making him the first official designer of the American flag.
Materials and Construction
The first American flags were likely made of red, white, and blue wool bunting. The thirteen stripes represented the original thirteen colonies, while the stars symbolized the union of those colonies.
The construction of the flag was likely delegated to various seamstresses throughout the country. There is no evidence to suggest that any single individual sewed all of the early American flags.
Evolution of the Flag
The design of the American flag has undergone several changes over the centuries. The number of stars increased as new states joined the Union. In 1960, Hawaii became the 50th state, and the flag was updated with 50 stars.
The dimensions and proportions of the flag have also been adjusted over time. The current official dimensions are 10 feet wide by 19 feet long.
Legacy and Significance
Regardless of who initially sewed it, the American flag has become an enduring symbol of the United States. It represents the nation’s history, values, and aspirations.
The flag has been flown in battle, on the moon, and in countless other places around the world. It has witnessed triumphs and tragedies, inspiring patriotism and unity among Americans.
Conclusion
While Betsy Ross’s role in creating the first American flag may be embellished, the flag itself remains a powerful representation of the American spirit. Its design and legacy are a testament to the nation’s founding principles and its enduring strength.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who is credited with designing the first official American flag?
A: Francis Hopkinson
Q: When was the first American flag designed?
A: June 1777
Q: What materials were used in the first American flags?
A: Red, white, and blue wool bunting
Q: How many stars were on the first American flag?
A: 13, representing the original thirteen colonies
Q: How many stars are on the current American flag?
A: 50, representing the 50 states in the Union
References
- Smith, Whitney. Flags Through the Ages and Across the World. New York: McGraw-Hill, 1975.
- Canby, William J. The Story of Betsy Ross. Philadelphia: J.B. Lippincott & Co., 1898.
- National Museum of American History. "The American Flag: A History." https://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/object-groups/american-flag
