A flag may be a single piece of cloth, but it can be interpreted in various ways based on what it entails in terms of color and design, making it highly symbolic. Besides being a national symbol, depending on what it shows and where it flies, a flag can be used to represent a certain group, freedom, safety, control, or even danger.
While every country has a distinct flag for representation, countries have various flags used for symbolic and recognition purposes. For instance, the United States has flags for its fifty states and other territories. If the topic intrigues you, continue reading as this article looks at five distinctive types of flags and what they represent.
National Flag
The national flag of the US that you see today is the 28th incarnation of the stars and stripes originally designed in 1775, whereby each version of the flag had a different number of stripes and stars. The current version was originally developed in 1960 on Independence Day.
The flag has thirteen horizontal red and white stripes representing the thirteen colonies that affirmed their independence from Great Britain and became the Union’s first states. The fifty stars on the blue portion represent the country’s fifty states. The national flag comes in various sizes and materials for use in different settings. Consequently, the equipment required for hoisting the flag comes in various forms. For instance, internal halyard flagpole of different lengths may be used for secure flag display in various outdoor locations.
State Flags
While almost every American may be familiar with the national flag, and many know the concept behind it, most individuals are not familiar with the different state flags, much less the meaning behind them. Each US state, along with the District of Colombia, has a distinctive flag, and all flag designs carry a certain meaning.
The state flag of Arizona is blue and gold, representing the state colors. The gold star in the center represents copper, as Arizona has more copper reserves than any other state. There are thirteen golden and red stripes representing the sun. Similarly, California’s state flag has a grizzly bear on it, the official state animal, representing strength. On the other hand, Washington DC’s flag symbolizes the coat of arms of the Washington family with two red stripes on a white background and three red stars on the top.
Military Flags
Each branch of the US armed forces has a distinct flag that has been designed with careful deliberation. These flags are a reminder of the country’s dynamic and rich history, and the symbols on them represent power and strength. They reflect the trials and tribulations endured by the individuals fighting to protect the country. The military flags are displayed on special occasions, forces academies, camps, bases, and ships.
The most intricate design of all the military flags is the army flag. It has a blue and white background with the War office seal. The flag also entails the army’s motto scrolled above the seal; We’ll Defend, which is surrounded by a snake. There is also a Roman Cuirass, flanked by a cannon and mortar in the emblem’s center, which is the army’s symbol of strength.
There is a red scroll under the emblem carrying the words United States Army with 1775 written at the bottom; this was the year the army was formed.
Service Flags
Besides the armed forces, there are various kinds of service flags. These flags are a symbol to memorialize the fallen and appreciate the men and women who put their lives on the line for the safety of people. The various kinds of service flags include first responder flags, fire department flags, police flags, emergency medical service, etc. These flags also come in various sizes and materials for different uses, including remembrance, mourning, and hanging outdoors.
Religious Flags
Religious flags carry symbols for different religions practiced worldwide and are intended to symbolize the faith and belief of a particular religion. They can be used to add spiritualism to homes or prayer areas and come in various sizes, including smaller flags for placement on tables or mantles and large flags for hoisting outdoors. They are also made of different materials depending on whether they are intended for everyday use or a special occasion.
Final Thoughts
The meaning and concept of the use of flags have evolved greatly over time. From a symbolic white flag on a battlefield or skull and bones on a pirate ship to modern flags of today representing a country, sports, or various organizations and bodies, the flag’s purpose and use have changed considerably throughout history.
Each flag design, regardless of what it represents, is based on a concept or idea that stems from culture, history, or religious beliefs, and the colors and symbols are thoughtfully selected and incorporated into the design. Hence, learning and understanding what a certain flag represents can be truly insightful and exciting.
