Flag Day

Updated February 21, 2017 | Factmonster Staff

Flag etiquette, history, controversy, and myth

Antique American Flags
On June 14, Americans celebrate the adoption of the first national flag. Also known as the "Stars and Stripes" or "Old Glory," the first American flag was approved by the Continental Congress on June 14, 1777. In 1818, after 5 more states joined the Union, Congress passed legislation fixing the number of stripes at 13 and requiring that the number of stars equal the number of states.

Click on the links below for more about the U.S. flag, flag etiquette, and flag history.

All About the U.S. Flag

More About U.S. Flags

Flags Worldwide


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