The American flag is a symbol of freedom and democracy. The flag features thirteen horizontal stripes, alternating between red and white, and a blue rectangle in the canton with fifty white stars. The stars represent the fifty states of the United States, while the stripes recall the original thirteen colonies that declared independence from Great Britain. The flag is often displayed during national holidays and patriotic events, evoking feelings of pride and unity among Americans. Its design has undergone several changes since its adoption in 1777, with the number of stars and stripes adjusted to reflect the growth of the country. The flag remains a powerful emblem of American identity and values.