The Virginia state flag is a prominent symbol of the Commonwealth of Virginia, representing its rich history, heritage, and patriotic spirit. Its design incorporates elements that reflect the state's colonial origins, its role in the American Revolution, and its enduring legacy as a southern state.
The origins of the Virginia state flag can be traced back to the colonial era. In 1606, the Virginia Company of London established the first permanent English settlement in North America at Jamestown. The company used a flag bearing the Union Jack with a white crescent in the upper left corner.
During the American Revolution, Virginia played a pivotal role. In 1776, the Virginia Convention adopted the first state flag, which featured a blue field with a white diamond in the center and the motto "Sic Semper Tyrannis" ("Thus Always to Tyrants").
The current Virginia state flag was adopted in 1950. It consists of a blue field with a white cross superimposed on a red field. The cross represents the Cross of Saint George, the patron saint of England. The red field symbolizes courage and valor, while the white cross represents purity and innocence.
In addition to the cross, the flag features the state seal in the center. The seal depicts a woman, known as Virtus, representing Virginia, standing beside a figure of Liberty. The seal also includes the motto "Perseverando" ("By Persevering") and the date of Virginia's ratification of the U.S. Constitution (June 25, 1788).
The Virginia state flag is defined by the Virginia Code § 54.1-2202 as follows:
"The state flag shall be a blue field, with a white cross superimposed on a red field. The white cross shall be of the same proportions and design as the white cross of the Southern Cross."
"The state seal shall be placed in the center of the cross. The seal shall be the same in design as the seal prescribed in § 7.1-2."
The Virginia state flag is flown at government buildings, schools, and other public places throughout the state. It is also displayed at sporting events, parades, and other patriotic ceremonies.
Proper flag etiquette dictates that the Virginia state flag should be flown below the U.S. flag, with the U.S. flag taking precedence. When both flags are flown together, the U.S. flag should be to the right of the state flag.
The Virginia state flag is a cherished symbol of the state's identity and heritage. It is flown with pride by Virginians and serves as a reminder of the state's rich history and its contributions to the nation.
The Virginia state flag offers opportunities for educational enrichment. By studying its design, history, and symbolism, students can learn about Virginia's colonial roots, its role in the American Revolution, and its enduring legacy as a southern state.
Date | Event |
---|---|
1606 | Virginia Company of London uses a flag with a Union Jack and a white crescent |
1776 | Virginia Convention adopts the first state flag with a blue field, a white diamond, and the motto "Sic Semper Tyrannis" |
1950 | Current Virginia state flag adopted |
Element | Symbolism |
---|---|
Blue field | Commonwealth of Virginia |
White cross | Cross of Saint George, purity and innocence |
Red field | Courage and valor |
State seal | Virtus representing Virginia, Liberty, "Perseverando" ("By Persevering"), and the date of Virginia's ratification of the U.S. Constitution |
Metric | Value |
---|---|
Number of stars | 3 |
Number of colors | 3 |
Size ratio | 2:3 |
Proportion of white cross | 1:3 |
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1. What is the meaning of the motto on the Virginia state flag?
"Perseverando" means "By Persevering" and represents Virginia's enduring spirit.
2. Why does the Virginia state flag have a cross?
The cross represents the Cross of Saint George, the patron saint of England, and reflects Virginia's colonial origins.
3. What is the significance of the state seal on the Virginia state flag?
The state seal depicts Virtus representing Virginia, Liberty, and the date of Virginia's ratification of the U.S. Constitution, symbolizing the state's history and ideals.
4. When should the Virginia state flag be flown?
The Virginia state flag should be flown at government buildings, schools, and other public places, as well as at sporting events, parades, and other patriotic ceremonies.
5. What are the dimensions of the Virginia state flag?
The Virginia state flag has a size ratio of 2:3, with the white cross being 1:3 of the flag's height.
6. What colors are used in the Virginia state flag?
The Virginia state flag uses three colors: blue, white, and red.
7. Who designed the current Virginia state flag?
The current Virginia state flag was designed by the Virginia State Capitol Design Commission.
8. What is the oldest known Virginia state flag?
The oldest known Virginia state flag is the Virginia Company flag, which dates back to 1606.
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