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Every Memorial Day and July 4th, millions of Americans get into the celebratory spirit. They adorn their homes with flags and striped bunting. They even deck themselves out in patriotic colors. But what is the meaning of the red, white, and blue associated with this symbol of the USA? Why are the colors in the American flag red, white, and blue rather than green, yellow, and blue or some other combination?
Red White Blue Meaning = Freedom and Liberty
The flag of the United States of America is a symbol of freedom and liberty. As a child, each school day began with the pledge of allegiance. Standing at attention, facing the flag with the right hand over the heart, reciting:
"I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."
This one simple daily act ingrained the symbolism of the flag and the meaning of the red, white, and blue into my mind. Years later, while studying color meaning, symbolism, and psychology, I became curious about why the country's leaders chose these colors to represent our country. Here is what I learned.
Official Red White Blue Meaning
The Continental Congress adopted the American flag in 1777 to celebrate the country's independence and unity. The country's leaders did not state any meaning behind the choice of colors at that time. However, five years later, in June 1782, the Continental Congress introduced the seal for the USA. Then, Secretary of the Continental Congress Charles Thompson, revealed the significance of red, white, and blue.. (usa.gov)
White signifies purity and innocence, Red bravery and valor, and Blue is the color of the Chief. The placement of the broad band signifies vigilance, perseverance, and justice.
charles thompson, secretary of the continental congresS,
told his assembled audience at the time.
The stripes on the flag represent the 13 states, and thirteen white stars in a blue field represent a new constellation that symbolizes their union.
Our founding fathers recognized the ability of color to communicate meaning. However, whether Americans know the specific significance of each color is not as important as the power of these colors to evoke our patriotic spirit and unify us as a country.
Seeing these colors evokes pride in our country and an appreciation for all who have made it a great place to live. What does red, white, and blue mean to you? Please leave a comment to let me know.
