the national flag of USA

[Melissa_dwl]

what do the colors stand for (blue, red and white) on the american national flag? and what about the national flag of England?

[geofbob]

There is probably no complete explanation for the colours. The first US flag of 1776 was known as the Grand Union flag, and consisted of the thirteen stripes (for the then 13 states); but with the British Union Jack in the top left rectangle. There doesn't appear to be any particular reason why the stripes were red and white, except that these matched two of the colours in the Union Jack. In 1777, the familiar white stars (13 originally) on a blue background, representing a new constellation, appeared in place of the British Flag. So you could certainly say the white stands for light, and the blue the night sky; but you'll have to decide for yourself as regards the red. You can find further information at many websites in http://www.geocities.com/CapitolHill/4182/.

[firefly]

The number of stripes stayed as thirteen as people realised that too many stripes would make the flag too inconsistant.

[homer]

In late 1775, the 'revolting' Colonies chose a flag with colours that reflected their feeling of unity with the Mother Country, (hence the adoption of colours on the Union flag) but which also expressed their demand to obtain justice and liberty - (which is where a different design and the stars came in). When the flag was fomally recognised after Independence the significance of the colors was defined: "White signifies Purity and Innocence; Red, Hardiness and Valor; Blue. Vigilance, Perseverance and Justice."