Flag Day in US: Date, history, significance and meaning of flag colours

The Flag Day of United States of America is celebrated annually on June 14. It honors the profound symbolism and rich history of the American flag. This day holds great significance as the flag of United States, as you see today, was adopted on this day in 1777.

Its significance dates back to May 1916 when President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation, designating this specific date as Flag Day. However, even before this official recognition, numerous states and cities had already been commemorating the day in various ways.

History

The inaugural Flag Day celebration took place in 1877, a century after the Continental Congress adopted the flag. Eventually, in 1949, President Harry Truman established Flag Day as a national observance.

Throughout the years, the American flag has undergone several modifications in its appearance, yet it has consistently represented the values of freedom and justice that the United States holds dear. Reflecting on its evolution unveils pivotal milestones and the rationale behind its design changes.

US Flag Colours and their meaning

• Red – Valor and Hardness
• White – Purity and Innocence
• Blue – Vigilance, Perseverance and Justice

US Flag Code

The United States Flag Code dates back to 1942 when Congress provided guidelines for display and presentation of the flag. It notes that the flag must not hang with stars down.

• No flag should be flown above or to the right of the U.S. flag, except at the UN headquarters.
• Citizens are encouraged to fly the flag at any time, ideally from sunrise to sunset, unless there are special occasions or proper illumination is provided.
• When a flag becomes unserviceable or damaged, it should be respectfully disposed of.
• It is important to ensure that the flag never touches the ground, as it is a sign of disrespect.

FAQs

1. What does US celebrate on July 4?
   US celebrates its Independence day on July 4.
2. What do stars and stripes mean in US Flag?
   The 50 stars represent the 50 states, while the 13 stripes represent the 13 original colonies.