The first flag, known as “Stars and Stripes,” was adopted by the Continental Congress on June 14, 1777, the same day that the United States was founded. The flag had 13 stripes of red and white that alternated to signify the original 13 colonies, and a canton of blue with 13 white stars to represent the unity of the states. The 1795 Flag Act mandated that the flag comprises of 15 stars and 15 stripes to signify the 15 states at the time.
The significance of the flag’s colors reflects the fundamental values and principles upon which the United States was founded. Red represents valor and courage, white represents purity and innocence, and blue represents tenacity, justice, and vigilance. The bald eagle, which is depicted on the Great Seal of the United States, is closely associated with the American flag, which represents fortitude, liberty, and independence.
Controversies encircling the United States flag have spurred debates and discord among Americans. Flag burning as a form of dissent is one of the most controversial aspects of the American flag. Some contend that burning the flag is protected by the First Amendment because it is a form of symbolic expression. Others consider it disrespectful and an act of desecration against a national symbol. The Supreme Court has ruled that flag-burning is a form of protected free speech, adding to the controversy.
The gold fringe conspiracy theory, which asserts that the presence of a gold fringe on a flag in a courtroom or government setting indicates that the court or government is operating under admiralty law or military jurisdiction as opposed to constitutional law, has been discredited by legal experts and is regarded as a baseless claim. American flags initially had gold fringe in 1777. The Continental Congress authorized gold fringe on Continental Army banners. The gold fringe was meant to make the flags stand out. American flags used gold fringe after the Revolution. Congress mandated “gold fringe” for the US flag in 1818. The gold fringe was not intended to have any legal importance, but the statute did not clarify its function. The US is not a company and does not follow marine laws. The American flag’s gold fringe is ornamental and has no legal meaning. For generations, the American flag’s gold fringe has remained innocuous.
How and when the flag should be displayed, whether it should be flown at half-mast, and how it should be cared for and discarded when it becomes weathered and tattered are all points of contention regarding flag etiquette. The US Flag Code provides guidelines on flag decorum, but interpretations may diverge.
Many individuals have been curious and speculative about the gold fringe on U.S. flags, leading to numerous hypotheses and interpretations. The origin of gold-fringed flags can be traced to European military and ceremonial traditions, with gold fringe being a common ornamental addition to enhance the visual allure of flags and represent the prestige and significance of military units. In modern times, gold-fringed flags have become a popular symbol of formality and opulence, used frequently during official ceremonies, parades, and government events. The United States Flag, POW/MIA Flag, Thin Blue Line Flag, Rainbow Flag, Gadsden Flag, Betsy Ross Flag, and 50-Star Flag represent various aspects of American history, identity, and values, respectively.
The incorporation of the gold fringe on American flags is rooted in European military and ceremonial traditions. Although gold-fringed flags are frequently seen in courtrooms and official government contexts, they have no legal significance and do not alter the flag’s jurisdiction. Instead, they are primarily a decorative element that adds formality and aesthetic appeal to ceremonies and events. Understanding the history and context of flags with gold fringe helps dispel myths and provides a more accurate perspective on their use in the United States.
The United States flag is a potent symbol of national unity, liberty, and national identity, and its complex history and symbolism contribute to its enduring significance in American culture. Despite the controversies and debates that have surrounded the flag throughout history, its presence continues to inspire pride and patriotism. Understanding the flag’s symbolism, history, and controversies enables us to appreciate its significance and the values it represents.