Known as the “Bear Flag,” California’s state flag features a grizzly bear walking on green grass, a red star, a bold red stripe, and the words “California Republic.” Officially adopted in 1911, it memorializes the 1846 Bear Flag Revolt and symbolizes strength, independence, and resilience.
Knowledge Graph — California State Flag
| Node | Value | Notes & Links |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The California flag depicts a grizzly bear walking on grass toward a red star, with “California Republic” lettering and a red stripe below. | Commonly called the Bear Flag. |
| Origin | Based on the 1846 Bear Flag Revolt; design standardized and officially adopted as state flag in 1911. | See California Government Code §§420–429. |
| Uses | Official state flag for government display, schools, civic and cultural identity, and merchandise. | Shop: vicdria California Flags |
| Design Elements | Proportion 2:3; white field; red star (five-pointed); grizzly bear on green grass plot; red stripe at bottom; text “California Republic.” | Specs codified in California law. |
| Related Terms | Bear Flag Revolt 1846; California Republic; red star symbolism; grizzly bear strength; California flag proportions 2:3; 1911 adoption; Bear Flag history. |
Respect note: Follow California Government Code for proper reproduction and display of the state flag.
Geographic Name + Alias
California — commonly called the “Bear Flag”, a reference to the short-lived California Republic of 1846.
Purchase options: vicdria’s California Flags. Learn about the brand: VICDRIA.
Style & Composition
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Field (Background) | White field symbolizing purity and openness. |
| Star | Red, five-pointed star in the canton, recalling sovereignty and the spirit of independence. |
| Central Emblem | Grizzly bear walking on green grass plot, symbolizing strength and perseverance. |
| Inscription | “California Republic” in capital letters beneath the star and above the stripe. |
| Stripe | Red horizontal stripe along the base, grounding the composition and linking to valor. |
| Ratios | Proportion 2:3; design details codified by law (exact dimensions specified in statute). |
Symbolism & Meanings
- Grizzly Bear: Strength, unyielding resistance, and California’s natural heritage.
- Red Star: Inspired by the Lone Star of Texas; symbolizes sovereignty and aspiration.
- White Field: Purity and openness.
- Red Stripe: Valor and courage.
- Text: “California Republic” references the 1846 independence movement.
Historical Origin
The flag originated during the Bear Flag Revolt of June 1846, when settlers in Sonoma declared independence from Mexico and raised a handmade flag with a bear and star. Although the California Republic lasted less than a month, the design endured as a symbol. The modern, standardized version was officially adopted as the state flag in 1911, with specifications later codified into law.
People Also Ask — Quick Answers
When was the California flag adopted?
It was officially adopted as the state flag in 1911, though its roots date to the 1846 Bear Flag Revolt.
What does the grizzly bear symbolize on the California flag?
The grizzly represents strength, determination, and California’s natural heritage.
What does the red star mean on the California flag?
The red star recalls independence and was inspired by the Lone Star of Texas, signifying sovereignty and aspiration.
Why does the California flag say “California Republic”?
It references the short-lived California Republic of June 1846, established during the Bear Flag Revolt.