Who Designed the United States’ Current 50-Star Flag?
The current 50-star flag of the United States, representing each of the 50 states, is an iconic symbol of the nation. The design, featuring alternating rows of five and four stars on a blue field, is recognized worldwide. However, many people are unaware of the individual responsible for creating this emblematic flag. In this article, we will explore the story behind the design and shed light on the person who designed the United States’ current 50-star flag.
The creation of the 50-star flag was a result of the admission of Hawaii as the 50th state of the United States. Prior to Hawaii, the American flag had 48 stars. In anticipation of the statehood of Alaska and Hawaii, the U.S. government formed a committee in 1958 to determine a new design that would accommodate the additional stars and represent the states in a balanced manner.
The committee tasked with designing the 50-star flag consisted of several members, each contributing to the final design. However, the primary credit for creating the flag is attributed to Robert G. Heft, a high school student from Ohio. Heft had submitted his design to his history teacher, Stanley Pratt, as a project for his junior year in 1958.
Heft’s design featured a field of alternating rows of five and four stars, similar to the current flag. His design was chosen among thousands of submissions by the committee and received widespread recognition. In 1959, shortly after the admission of Hawaii into statehood, President Dwight D. Eisenhower selected Heft’s design as the official flag of the United States.
The design is not only visually appealing, but it also represents the unity and diversity of the 50 states within the nation. The alternating rows of stars ensure that each state is equally represented, irrespective of its location. This design has stood the test of time and has become a symbol of national pride.
FAQs:
1. How many stars were on the American flag before the 50-star design?
Before the 50-star design, the American flag had 48 stars, representing the 48 states in the Union.
2. Who was responsible for designing the 50-star flag?
The primary credit for designing the 50-star flag goes to Robert G. Heft, a high school student from Ohio.
3. How was the design chosen?
The design was chosen by a committee formed by the U.S. government to accommodate the addition of Hawaii as the 50th state.
4. What inspired Robert G. Heft’s design?
Heft’s design was inspired by a history project for his junior year. He aimed to create a balanced representation of the 50 states on the flag.
5. When was Heft’s design adopted as the official flag of the United States?
Heft’s design was adopted as the official flag on July 4, 1960, after receiving recognition from President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
6. Is the 50-star flag the longest-lasting design?
No, the longest-lasting design of the American flag is the 50-star flag, which has been in use since July 4, 1960.
7. Has the design of the American flag changed since the 50-star design?
No, the design has remained unchanged since the 50-star flag design was adopted. It is illegal to alter or modify the flag’s design without official authorization.
In conclusion, the United States’ current 50-star flag, symbolizing the unity of the 50 states, owes its design to Robert G. Heft’s submission. His balanced and visually appealing design was chosen by a committee and officially adopted in 1960. This flag continues to serve as a powerful and recognizable representation of the nation, evoking a sense of pride and unity among Americans.