History of the Betsy Ross and Gadsden Flag

The History of the Betsy Ross Flag

The Betsy Ross flag is one of the most iconic symbols of the American Revolution. Popular legend states that seamstress Betsy Ross was approached by George Washington, Robert Morris, and George Ross to create the first American flag. While this myth has been disputed by historians, the Betsy Ross flag featuring 13 stars in a circle has endured as a patriotic symbol.

Betsy Ross and the Birth of the Flag Legend

In 1870, Betsy Ross' grandson, William Canby, presented a paper to the Historical Society of Pennsylvania recounting the story of his grandmother being approached to create the first American flag. According to Canby, Betsy Ross successfully convinced George Washington to change the six-pointed stars to five-pointed stars because they were easier to sew. While many of the details of this legend have been questioned, it brought the Betsy Ross flag design featuring 13 five-pointed stars arranged in a circle into popular imagination.

The Circular 13-Star Pattern

The circular pattern of 13 five-pointed stars is the distinctive feature of the Betsy Ross flag. The stars are spaced evenly in a solid blue canton with the 13 alternating red-and-white striped bars extending horizontally across the remainder of the flag. This iconic flag design has appeared widely in American culture, with the circular star pattern enduring as a unifying patriotic symbol.

The Origin of the Gadsden "Don't Tread On Me" Flag

The Gadsden flag, also known as the "Don't Tread on Me" or "No Step on Snek" flag, has a fascinating history. As an early American banner, it was one of the first flags used by the Continental Marines. It served as a message of defiance and rising patriotism prior to the American Revolutionary War. Over the years, it has retained deep symbolic ties to America's passion for freedom and independence.

Designed by Patriot Christopher Gadsden

The Gadsden flag originated in 1775 at the outset of the American Revolution. It was conceived by South Carolina Congressman Christopher Gadsden, a Continental Army patriot dedicated to the cause of independence. The coiled rattlesnake over the phrase "Don't Tread On Me" was his creative way of voicing the concerns of colonists being "trodden upon" by British taxation without representation and tyranny.

Early Adoption by Continental Marines

Gadsden's flag design of a defiant rattlesnake quickly resonated with rebelling colonists. One of its earliest uses was as the first flag flown by the Continental Marines in 1775. It was displayed on their vessels as they waged war against British warships around the colonies. The Gadsden flag theme reflected their fighting spirit and resolve to defeat oppression. Its sentiment became a driving source of morale for Revolutionary era soldiers and citizens.

From its inception, the Gadsden flag has embodied the feisty spirit of defiance and independence that fueled America's revolutionary beginnings. Despite controversy in modern times, it remains deeply intertwined with America’s patriotic DNA.

FAQs

Who designed the Betsy Ross flag?

The Betsy Ross flag is popularly believed to have been designed by Betsy Ross, a Philadelphia seamstress, in 1776 at the request of George Washington and other Founding Fathers. However, historical confirmation is lacking.

What does the rattlesnake symbolize on the Gadsden flag?

The rattlesnake on the Gadsden flag symbolizes vigilance and preparedness to defend oneself against threat, just as a rattlesnake raises its rattle to warn aggressors. This represents the American colonists' defiance against British tyranny.

When was the first time the Gadsden flag used in battle?

The Gadsden flag saw its first military use in 1775 when it was flown on Continental Navy and Marine vessels during the American Revolutionary War, beginning with the capture of British supply transport HMS Polly.

Where can I buy an authentic Betsy Ross or Gadsden flag?

Authentic historical flags are available from specialty retailers like Gettysburg Flag Works and U.S. Flag Depot. Be wary of cheap imitation flags that may degrade the historical accuracy and sentiment.