History of United States flags

Symbolism of State Flags

In the United States, our system of federalism dictates that legislative powers are divided among federal, state, and local governments. The federal government holds the most power, followed by state and then local governments. Each level of government is responsible for legislation that addresses the increasingly specific needs and concerns of their constituents. In line with this system, the US Flag Code stipulates that the American Flag is always displayed in the most prominent position.

In outdoor presentations, the American flag is always the largest and highest flag. The state flag must be displayed beneath the American flag. If the POW-MIA flag is on display, the state flag must also be displayed beneath it.

In indoor presentations, the protocol is for the American Flag to be in the most prominent position as well. For example, when displayed on a stage, the American Flag is displayed to the right of the speaker, with the state flag and any other flags displayed to the left of the speaker. These measures symbolize the idea that our respect and loyalty are to our country first, before state and local associations.

It is the responsibility of each state's representatives to create a unique flag whose colors, symbols, and designs reflect the people, history, animals, resources, and nature of that particular state. Interestingly, many of the state flags in use today have remained relatively unchanged since their introduction and trace back to the American Revolution, while other flags have been more recently developed to represent the modern features of the state. Those states that choose older flags pay homage to the unique history of their state.

The most popular color used among the U.S. state flags is dark blue, which ties into the canton of the U.S. flag that features 50 stars. Forty-six of the fifty state flags include the color blue. The only state flags that do not include blue are Alabama, California, Washington D.C., Maryland, and New Mexico.

The Most Attractive State Flag Designs

Periodically, the North American Vexillological Association conducts a poll of its members and the public to determine the most attractive flags among the US state and Canadian province flags. Respondents are asked to rank flags based solely on visual attractiveness, excluding any political, historical, or geographical biases. The most recent poll, conducted in 2001, garnered over 29,000 responses. The results indicated that respondents preferred simple, distinctive flags. Flag experts noted that bold, simple designs that are easily recognizable as a state's flag while remaining distinctive were the most appealing. The top 10 US flags by rating are listed below:

New Mexico
Texas
Maryland
Alaska
Arizona
Washington, D.C.
South Carolina
Hawaii
California
Tennessee

The results also indicated that designs featuring elaborate elements, such as crests or coats of arms, and literally spelling out the states' names were among the least attractive. The survey indicated that the top ten most unattractive US state flags are as follows: