Like our national flag, state flags symbolize history and location. Each one holds a unique beauty since every state’s history is different. Get to know the state flags: ten interesting facts about state flags to know will help you learn the stories behind them.
Four Don’t Include Blue
Out of all 50 flags, only four don’t include blue in their design: Alabama, California, Maryland, and New Mexico.
The Flags and Colors
Only a handful of flags don’t include blue, but Washington’s flag consists of a different color altogether. Most of the flags have a white, red, or blue background; however, the state of Washington’s flag has a green one!
Undergone Redesigns
Every state flag we see today isn’t the same as it once was. Several of the flags have undergone redesigns over the years. Georgia’s flag, for instance, has undergone several redesigns, and while themes have remained, the design itself has varied.
The Flags and Stars
Several of the state flags include stars in their design, but how they do this differs. The Alaskan flag displays the Big Dipper, while Arizona’s flag has a single star but an array of 13 stripes on the top half to symbolize the 13 colonies.
The Two-Sided Flag
Up until 1971, Oregon was the only flag to have a design on both sides. While the front includes the state seal, a beaver is on the back.
The Flags and Animals
Many of the state flags include an animal, and this differs from state to state. Some, like the flag of Oregon, include the state animal. Others have America’s national animal—the bald eagle.
Another Flag’s Design
The Hawaiian flag is the only one that includes another country’s design. Even more interesting is that the design included is Great Britain’s. The design in the upper left corner pays respect to the alliance between Great Britain and Hawaii.
The Flags and Shape
Not every state flag is a rectangle, as Ohio’s state flag is swallowtail shaped. This shape is symbolic of the hills and valleys prominent in the state.
Interesting Influence
Another interesting fact about state flags to know is that Iowa and Missouri’s flag designs pull influence from the French flag. This is to pay tribute to history as France once ruled both states.
The Flags and Culture
Oklahoma’s flag blends the culture of the Native Americans and Europeans—that is, it did after modifications. The current design includes an Osage Nation buffalo-skin shield that has seven eagle feathers hanging off it. Two other key features are the olive branch and a peace pipe representing peace to Europeans and Native Americans.
Each state flags holds unique history, and some reflect that through their design. As you look to show off your state pride, shop at Federal Flags! You can find beautiful state flags for purchase at our online store, or if you want to test your knowledge check out our American flag trivia.
