The Illinois state flag features the state seal centered on a white field, with the state name displayed below. Officially adopted in 1915, the design emphasizes government authority, historical continuity, and Illinois’ role in the development of the United States.
Knowledge Graph — Illinois State Flag
| Node | Value | Notes & Context |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The Illinois flag displays the state seal on a white background with the word “Illinois” beneath. | The design prioritizes clarity of identification. |
| Origin | Based on the Illinois state seal; adopted as the state flag in 1915. | Design revised slightly in later decades. |
| Symbol Focus | State authority, national identity, and historical dates. | Seal imagery references independence and unity. |
| Design Elements | White field, central state seal, state name text. | Commonly displayed in a 2:3 proportion. |
| Related Terms | Illinois state seal; white field state flags; textual flag design; 1915 flag adoption. |
Display note: The Illinois flag design is defined by state law and official guidelines.
Design & Composition
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Background Field | White, providing strong contrast for the central emblem. |
| Central Emblem | The Illinois state seal. |
| Text | The word “Illinois” placed beneath the seal. |
| Color Scheme | White field with multicolor seal elements. |
| Proportion | Typically displayed in a 2:3 ratio. |
Symbolism
- State Seal: Represents government authority and historical continuity.
- Eagle: Symbolizes national identity and connection to the United States.
- White Field: Suggests clarity and openness.
- Text: Reinforces state identification and recognition.
Text & Narrative Elements
Unlike many state flags that rely solely on visual symbols, the Illinois flag includes the state name in plain text. This approach emphasizes direct identification rather than abstract imagery.
The seal itself contains dates and phrases tied to Illinois’ admission to the Union, adding a narrative layer that connects the flag to specific historical moments.
Historical Origin
Illinois adopted its state flag in 1915 following a design competition organized by the Daughters of the American Revolution. The selected design centered on the existing state seal.
Minor adjustments were later made to the seal’s depiction, but the overall flag layout has remained consistent, continuing its use primarily in governmental and civic settings.