American History Hit Who Designed the American Flag?
Sep 1, 2025
In this discussion, historian Marc Leepson, author of 'Flag: An American Biography,' uncovers the intriguing backstory of the American flag. He sheds light on the evolution of its design and significant moments that shaped its identity, such as its role in the Civil War and the Spanish-American War. The conversation also debunks the myth surrounding Betsy Ross's involvement and explores the flag's deep emotional connection to patriotism, national pride, and the rituals that surround it in American culture.
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Unique American Flag Culture
- Americans display a uniquely intense cultural attachment to the flag shaped by rituals and institutions.
- Marc Leepson identifies six distinctive American flag practices that aren't matched elsewhere in the same combination.
Original Resolution Left Key Details Out
- The 1777 Continental Congress resolution set only stars and stripes, not arrangement or symbolism.
- Early flag details (star points, arrangements, meanings) were flexible and undocumented for decades.
Many Early Flag Designs Coexisted
- Early flags varied wildly: five- to eight-point stars and many star layouts coexisted.
- Marc Leepson notes the Betsy Ross and Hopkinson designs are largely undocumented and mostly later constructions.