The American or US flag is a staunch symbol of strength, power, glory, and freedom, among many other virtues encompassed by its image. Commonly referred to as the Old Glory, it is also referred to by others as the Stars and Stripes. For over two centuries since it was first officially flown as a symbol of an independent nation, it bore the aspirations and inspirations of millions of people.
Currently, the national image of the US flag is composed of thirteen alternating horizontal stripes of white and red (seven red and six white). These are the representation of the initial 13 colonies which stood up for independence from the colonial British rule. The fifty stars in the upper left corner stands for the fifty states that comprise the current nation that we recognize. The colors white and blue signify purity and innocence, and vigilance and perseverance, respectively.
While the US flag is constitutionally recognized as the highest level of embodiment of the nation in the form of a flag, the US states’ flag are classified to be secondary, as well as other forms of officially recognized flags for the US. For instance, the capital of USA – Washington DC, has its own flown emblem to signify its importance and existence. The commonwealth of Puerto Rico is associated with the US as well.
The US flag has undergone various changes from its first conception to the present day embodiment of its sovereign, yet it retains all the ideals and aspirations as initially written and embodied in the declaration of independence.