How many stripes are on the U.S. flag?

The U.S. flag features 13 stripes, which represent the original 13 colonies that declared independence from British rule. These colonies are Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Rhode Island. The stripes alternate in red and white, with seven red stripes and six white stripes.

This design has become a significant symbol of American history and patriotism. The flag also includes a blue field in the upper left corner, known as the canton, which contains the stars representing the 50 states. Understanding the symbolism behind the stripes and stars helps to grasp the flag's representation of unity and the nation's founding principles.