The Star-Spangled Banner          Ø

Francis Scott Key writes the anthem after witnessing the bombardment of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812.  Set to the tune of a popular English drinking song, it is first sung in 1816.

"Remember Pearl Harbor" Flag  Ø

At Liberty Bond rallies during the Second World War, movie stars auction off patriotic items like this 1942 memorial flag to raise funds for the war effort.

June 14, 1777: The Continental Congress resolves "that the flag of the United States be 13 stripes, alternate red and white; that the Union be 13 stars, white in a blue field representing a new constellation."  This 1866 historic flag arranges the stars differently from Betsy Ross's original circle.

×  Civil War Battle Flag

With the fabric of U.S. society nearly torn apart by internal strife, the flag serves as a potent rallying symbol for those fighting to preserve the Union.   This one from 1865 records a volunteer regiment's battles.

×  Flag with Founders' Signatures

Emblazoned with signatures from the Declaration of Independence (1776), this flag pays tribute to those who originally put their lives on the line to secure the rights of life, and the pursuit of happiness we still enjoy today.