Reasons There Are Different Versions of the American Flag

In history class, many of us learn about a previous version or two of the American flag. But what most don’t realize is there have been over 28 different American flags since the country’s founding. Many versions existed throughout history as the young nation grew. Feed your brain with knowledge and read all about the reasons there are different versions of the American flag!

Historical Factors

One of the many surprising facts about the American flag is the number of iterations it has gone through. History is among the main reasons there are different versions of the American flag. The nation went through changes, and the flag representing it had to transform too. For example, when the country first gained independence, there were 13 colonies. So, the flag had 13 stars at the time.

Congressional Acts

As America grew, the number of stars on the flag did, too, ensuring each state had representation. Another reason there are different versions of the American flag is changing congressional laws. Over the years, various acts that Congress passed impacted the American flag’s shape and design. In the end, legislative members agreed that they would add a star for every state that joined the nation.

The Act of January 13, 1794, called for 15 stripes and 15 stars. But the Act of April 4, 1818, called for only 13 stripes and one star for every state. And these are just two of the many acts and executive orders that shaped the flag.

The Flag Through the Years

Between 1836 and 1837, the flag was halfway to its current state, with 25 stars to stand for each state. Arkansas became the 25th state in 1836, as it was a part of the land acquired through the Louisiana Purchase.

It wasn’t long before the flag gained another five stars. From 1848 through 1851, the flag had 30 stars on it. And by 1861, it was up to 34 stars. During the Civil War, many fighting under it saw it as a symbol of hope and even freedom. The flag continued changing to reflect the ever-growing United States of America.

FAQ

Why did the American flag change over time?

As America grew, the number of stars on the flag did, too, ensuring each state had representation. Another reason there are different versions of the American flag is changing congressional laws. Over the years, various acts that Congress passed impacted the American flag’s shape and design. In the end, legislative members agreed that they would add a star for every state that joined the nation.

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