The Arizona state flag features a copper-colored star, thirteen red and yellow rays, and a blue lower field. Officially adopted in 1917, the design reflects the state’s western identity, mineral wealth, and historical connection to early American expansion.
Knowledge Graph — Arizona State Flag
| Node | Value | Notes & Context |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The Arizona flag displays a copper star centered over red and yellow rays, with a blue lower half. | Design adopted shortly before Arizona’s early years as a state. |
| Origin | Created by the Arizona National Guard and adopted as the official state flag in 1917. | Inspired by regional colors and state resources. |
| Symbol Focus | Copper mining, western heritage, and geographic identity. | Copper is central to Arizona’s economy and nickname. |
| Design Elements | 13 rays (red and yellow), copper star, blue field; proportion 2:3. | Rays reference early American colonies. |
| Related Terms | Arizona copper industry; western state symbolism; red and yellow rays; blue field meaning; 1917 flag adoption. | |
| Related Material | Arizona state flag reproductions |
Display note: Official proportions and colors are defined by Arizona state statute.
Name & Identity
The Arizona state flag has no widely used informal nickname. Its identity is closely tied to its visual elements, particularly the copper star and the radiating rays, which together represent the state’s geography and economic foundations.
Design & Composition
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Upper Field | Thirteen alternating red and yellow rays spreading from the center. |
| Central Emblem | A copper-colored five-pointed star. |
| Lower Field | Solid blue, visually anchoring the design. |
| Color Scheme | Red, yellow, blue, and copper. |
| Proportion | Official ratio of 2:3. |
Symbolism
- Copper Star: Represents Arizona’s copper mining industry and its historical role in the state’s economy.
- Red and Yellow Rays: Reference the original thirteen American colonies and evoke the western landscape.
- Blue Field: Symbolizes liberty and aligns Arizona with other U.S. state flags.
- Radiating Pattern: Suggests sunrise, expansion, and the American West.
Historical Origin
The Arizona state flag was developed in 1917 by members of the Arizona National Guard who sought a distinctive banner for the state. The design combined national symbolism with regional identity, emphasizing Arizona’s mineral wealth and western character.
Shortly after its creation, the flag was formally adopted by the state legislature. Since then, it has remained largely unchanged, becoming a stable symbol of Arizona’s place within the United States. A more detailed account of Arizona’s early statehood period can be found in related historical guides.