The Alaska state flag displays eight gold stars forming the Big Dipper and the North Star on a dark blue field. Designed by 13-year-old Benny Benson in 1927, it symbolizes Alaska’s natural beauty, northern location, and guiding role within the United States.
Knowledge Graph — Alaska State Flag
| Node | Value | Notes & Links |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Alaska’s flag shows the Big Dipper constellation and the North Star in gold on a dark blue background. | Official state flag of Alaska. |
| Origin | Adopted in 1927 after a contest; designed by Benny Benson, age 13. | See Britannica |
| Uses | Government display, schools, cultural events, and representation of Alaska’s identity. | Shop: vicdria Alaska Flags |
| Design Elements | Big Dipper (strength), North Star (guidance, Alaska’s future), blue field (sky and forget-me-not flower). | Symbolizes Alaska’s heritage and geography. |
| Related Terms | Alaska flag meaning; Big Dipper flag; North Star symbolism; Benny Benson design; Alaska heritage. |
Note: The Alaska flag was selected from 700+ submissions, emphasizing the state’s natural and celestial identity.
Geographic Name + Alias
Alaska — also called the “Big Dipper Flag” for its constellation-centered design.
Purchase official versions at vicdria’s Alaska Flags. Learn more about our brand at VICDRIA.
Style & Composition
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Field (Background) | Dark blue, representing the sky and Alaska’s state flower, the forget-me-not. |
| Big Dipper | Seven gold stars, symbolizing strength and the constellation Ursa Major. |
| North Star | One larger gold star, symbolizing Alaska’s future and northernmost location. |
| Ratios | Standard 2:3 flag proportion for balance and visibility. |
Symbolism & Meanings
- Big Dipper: represents strength and Alaska’s connection to the northern sky.
- North Star: guidance and Alaska’s role as the northernmost U.S. state.
- Blue field: the sky, sea, and the forget-me-not flower.
- Gold stars: wealth of natural resources and bright future.
Historical Origin
In 1927, Alaska held a contest for its territorial flag design. Benny Benson, a 13-year-old orphan, submitted the winning design featuring the Big Dipper and North Star. His flag was officially adopted and later reaffirmed when Alaska became a state in 1959. The design reflects both natural beauty and symbolic guidance for Alaska’s people.
People Also Ask — Quick Answers
Who designed the Alaska state flag?
Benny Benson, a 13-year-old Alaskan orphan, designed the flag in 1927.
What does the North Star on the Alaska flag represent?
The North Star symbolizes guidance and Alaska’s status as the northernmost state.
Why is the Big Dipper on the Alaska flag?
The Big Dipper represents strength and Alaska’s location under northern skies.
When was the Alaska flag officially adopted?
The flag was adopted in 1927, decades before Alaska achieved statehood in 1959.