U.S. State Flags Knowledge Base

Discover the history, meanings, and cultural significance of the United States and state flags. Explore symbolism, origins, and unique stories behind every flag.

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Flag Meanings & Symbolism

Understand the colors, patterns, and icons that make each flag unique.

History of State & U.S. Flags

Trace the fascinating stories of how U.S. and state flags came to be.

State Flags Directory

StateFlagMeaning
United States (US)US flagStars represent states; stripes honor original 13 colonies.
California (CA)California flagGrizzly bear and star symbolize strength and sovereignty.
Alabama (AL)Alabama flagCrimson cross recalls the Confederate battle emblem.
New Mexico (NM)New Mexico flagZia sun symbol reflects harmony of life’s four directions.
Colorado (CO)Colorado flagRed “C” with golden disk stands for sunshine and land.
Georgia (GA)Georgia flagThirteen stars symbolize state’s unity in the Union.
Texas (TX)Texas flagLone star honors Texas independence and unity.
Ohio (OH)Ohio flagUnique swallowtail design reflects waterways and strength.
Indiana (IN)Indiana flagTorch of liberty with stars for enlightenment and unity.
Tennessee (TN)Tennessee flagThree stars for the three grand divisions of Tennessee.
Alaska (AK)Alaska flagBig Dipper and North Star symbolize Alaska’s night sky.
Arizona (AZ)Arizona flagSun rays and copper star honor natural resources.
Arkansas (AR)Arkansas flagStars denote U.S. entry and Confederate heritage.
Connecticut (CT)Connecticut flagVineyard vines signify growth and prosperity.
Delaware (DE)Delaware flagColonial colors and coat of arms honor first statehood.
Florida (FL)Florida flagRed cross with seal represents sunshine state heritage.
Hawaii (HI)Hawaii flagUnion Jack with stripes recalls island history.
Idaho (ID)Idaho flagState seal represents resources and independence.
Illinois (IL)Illinois flagBald eagle and motto symbolize state sovereignty.
Iowa (IA)Iowa flagEagle and ribbons represent liberty and loyalty.
Kansas (KS)Kansas flagSeal depicts pioneer life and agriculture.
Kentucky (KY)Kentucky flagSeal shows unity and frontier spirit.
Lousiana (LA)Louisiana flagPelican feeding young symbolizes sacrifice and care.
Maine (ME)Maine flagCoat of arms reflects wilderness and labor.
Maryland (MD)Maryland flagCalvert and Crossland heraldic colors.
Massachusetts (MA)Massachusetts flagNative warrior and star for statehood.
Michigan (MI)Michigan flagLatin mottoes stress strength and peace.
Minnesota (MN)Minnesota flagSeal depicts pioneer and natural resources.
Mississippi (MS)Mississippi flagMagnolia blossom represents hospitality.
Missouri (MO)Missouri flagStars and seal signify state sovereignty.
Montana (MT)Montana flagSeal shows mining and agriculture heritage.
Nebraska (NE)Nebraska flagSeal depicts industry and natural beauty.
Nevada (NV)Nevada flagSagebrush and star highlight Silver State identity.
New Hampshire (NH)New Hampshire flagShip and laurel show independence and victory.
New Jersey (NJ)New Jersey flagSeal honors agriculture and liberty.
New York (NY)New York flagLiberty and Justice flank state shield.
North Carolina (NC)North Carolina flagDates highlight independence and Union entry.
North Dakota (ND)North Dakota flagEagle and shield reflect U.S. loyalty.
Oklahoma (OK)Oklahoma flagOsage shield and olive branch show peace.
Oregon (OR)Oregon flagDouble-sided design with state seal and beaver.
Pennsylvania (PA)Pennsylvania flagCoat of arms symbolizes prosperity.
Rhode Island (RI)Rhode Island flagAnchor and “Hope” motto express faith.
South Carolina (SC)South Carolina flagPalmetto tree and crescent signify resilience.
South Dakota (SD)South Dakota flagSun and seal denote state resources.
Vermont (VT)Vermont flagCoat of arms honors mountains and freedom.
Virginia (VA)Virginia flagVirtus defeating tyranny represents liberty.
Washington (WA)Washington flagGeorge Washington portrait symbolizes heritage.
West Virginia (WV)West Virginia flagCoat of arms emphasizes liberty and farming.
Wisconsin (WI)Wisconsin flagSeal represents industry and resources.
Wyoming (WY)Wyoming flagBison silhouette honors wildlife heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

The 50 stars represent the 50 states of the United States. Each star corresponds to one state.

The flag of Texas is among the oldest, officially adopted in 1839, though some states had unofficial banners earlier.

Each state flag reflects its unique history, culture, and values, serving as a symbol of state pride and identity.

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Flags That Fly With Meaning

Explore our full range of embroidered state and U.S. flags—crafted for durability, designed with pride.