14 Fun Facts About the American Flag You Might Not Know
The American flag is one of the most recognizable symbols in the world. But behind the stars and stripes lies a rich and evolving history filled with surprises. Here are 14 fun facts that might change the way you look at the U.S. flag.
1. The Flag Wasn’t Always Standardized
Early American flags varied in star arrangement and proportions. It wasn’t until 1912 that President Taft issued an executive order standardizing the design.
2. Betsy Ross May Not Have Designed It
While many believe Betsy Ross created the first flag, there’s no definitive historical proof. The claim originated from her grandson nearly a century later.
3. There Have Been 27 Official Versions
Each new state added a star to the flag. Since 1777, the flag has officially changed 27 times.
4. The 50-Star Version Was a School Project
In 1958, a 17-year-old student named Robert Heft designed a 50-star version for a history class. It later became the official flag when Hawaii was added.
5. Flag Day Is June 14
The Continental Congress adopted the first flag on June 14, 1777. President Woodrow Wilson officially established Flag Day in 1916.
6. There’s a Flag Code
Established in 1942, the U.S. Flag Code outlines proper flag etiquette — including how to display, fold, and dispose of it.
7. The Colors Have Meaning
Red symbolizes valor, white signifies purity, and blue represents vigilance and justice.
8. The Nickname “Old Glory” Has a Story
Sea captain William Driver gave the flag this nickname in 1831. It became widely popular during the Civil War.
9. There’s a Flag on the Moon
The Apollo 11 mission planted an American flag on the Moon in 1969 — although it’s now likely bleached white from solar radiation.
10. Flag Burning Is Protected Speech
In the 1989 Supreme Court case Texas v. Johnson, flag burning was ruled a form of free speech under the First Amendment.
11. The Flag Must Never Touch the Ground
According to the Flag Code, the flag should never touch anything beneath it — including the ground, water, or floor.
12. The Largest Flag Ever Made Was Nearly a Football Field Wide
The largest U.S. flag, created in 1992, measured over 255 feet wide and 505 feet long.
13. The Flag Was Once Used for Protest and Propaganda
During the Vietnam War and civil rights movement, the fl
