The United States flag, also known as the American flag, is a powerful symbol of the country's history and values. The flag features thirteen horizontal stripes, alternating between red and white, and a blue rectangle in the canton with fifty white stars. The stripes represent the original thirteen colonies, while the stars symbolize the fifty states of the union. The flag is often displayed during national holidays and events, serving as a unifying emblem for the American people. Its design has undergone several changes since its adoption, with the current version being a representation of the country's growth and evolution.