105 years ago, Woodrow Wilson established today as Flag Day. Why this date?
When the American Revolution began (1775), we lacked a unifying flag. Regiments chose their own flags with which to fight against the British. And, then, almost a year after we became independent (or thought we were becoming independent), the Continental Congress (the second one)- while preparing the Articles of Confederation (statement of principles and agreement among the 13 colonies, serving as a constitution of sorts)- passed a resolution decreeing that the “flag of the union be 13 stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation”. In other words, the designation of a flag that would be uniform among the 13 constituent states. They wanted a unified colonial fighting force.
(Maybe we should consider that concept now. After all, America is less unified than ever. There are Democrats, Progressive, Trumpeters, Independents, and maybe even a few Republicans left. If the Israeli’s can produce a unified government- why not us? That’s why we need to fly the flag today! To find a common language of sorts.)
One should note that the Continental Congress provided no insight as to why the colors or shapes were chosen. That was left to reinterpretation by Congress (1782) when it stated that white was chosen for its designation as purity and innocence, blue for vigilance, perseverance, and justice, and red to designate valor and hardiness.
Well- maybe. After all these three colors were the same ones found on the British Flag (the Union Jack). And, as is true with the origination of many religions, slight modifications are made to existing norms- so the folks are somewhat comfortable that radical change is not what is being effected.
By the way, while Wilson declared 14 June as Flag Day in 1916, it took 33 more years for Congress to act and make the proclamation law. National Flag Day was established on 3 August 1949- but it is NOT a Federal holiday. (Pennsylvania does maintain the day as a state holiday.)
By the way- I had never heard the above song. Until 1 July 1959, when Eliot Dorfman wrote a skit (for me) to perform on the 4th of July- comprised of this and a slew of other George M. Cohan tunes.
Happy Flag Day! A good history of how long it takes to enact so many laws and tradition in governments, especially the good ol USA!
Great observation, Kate! thanks for adding to the conversation.
I remember that song! While today is flag day, we fly our flag everyday not just on holidays like many people do.
Very super, Martha!
“You’re a Grand Old Flag” was one of many songs I learned at a New Jersey sleepaway camp for urban youth – perhaps around 1963. Your observation about how flags of new countries are chosen is interesting – I had never heard of that. If our citizens don’t unite, though, we won’t have that flag for much longer – and I am fearful for our future, truthfully.
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I fear our democracy is at risk, not the country- which won’t be the same country without democracy, Alana.