Typically, the Fourth of July is celebrated as America’s birthday, but June 14th is also a special day in American history. On June 14, 1777 the Second Continental Congress adopted a flag to represent the United States as its official flag. The first U.S. flag had 13 stripes alternating between red and white, it also had 13 white stars on a blue background representing each state in the union and a new constellation.
Here are some other fun facts about the U.S. flag and Flag Day.
- According to PBS.org, between 1777and 1960, Congress passed several acts that changed the shape, design and arrangement of the flag, today the flag consists of 13 horizontal stripes and 50 stars that represent each state. The colors of the flag are also symbolic; red symbolizes hardiness and valor, white symbolizes purity and innocence, and blue represents vigilance, perseverance and justice.
- A kindergarten teacher from New York City planned ceremonies for kids at his school to observe Flag Day on June 14, 1889. His idea of observing the day was later adopted by the State Board of Education of New York.
- In 1937, Pennsylvania became the first U.S. state to celebrate Flag Day as a state holiday.
- While President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed June 14 “Flag Day” in May of 1916, it was not until President Truman signed an Act of Congress on Aug. 3, 1949, that designatedJune 14, as National Flag Day.
- The United States Army also celebrates June 14, as its birthday.
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