There are few things that make Americans more proud than the American flag.

And each feature of our flag represents something very important.

Close

Red symbolizes hardiness and valor, white conveys purity and innocence, and blue represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice.

The 13 stripes (our original colonies) and 50 stars (our current states) on the flag serve as a clean, clear and strong message that Americans look to during times of both success and struggle. The American flag has gone through numerous changes and events since the official adoption nearly 240 years ago by the Second Continental Congress.

To celebrate Flag Day this year, June 14 (which is also President Donald Trump’s birthday), scroll through the gallery below.

And enjoy some of the most compelling moments for Old Glory.

(photo credit, article image: Iwo Jima Memorial, CC BY-SA 2.0, by Kevin Burkett)