Understanding Why the American Flag is Flown from the Stars Side

Many people ask why the American flag is flown from the 'stars side,' but in reality, it is simply a matter of flag orientation and convention. We will delve into the history and the reasons behind this symbolism.

The Original Answer

The simple answer is that the grommets (the metal rings through which the ropes are attached) are on the star side. However, the real answer involves more than just the hardware. The design of the American flag, known as 'Stars and Stripes,' with 50 stars representing the states and 13 stripes representing the original colonies, follows specific conventions for flag orientation.

Historical Context

The flag of the USA features 'Stars and Stripes,' where the 50 stars symbolize the 50 states that came together to form the United States, while the 13 stripes represent the original 13 colonies that declared independence from Great Britain. The rationale behind the positioning of the stars and stripes was not about which side was 'greater.' Instead, it was about following established flag conventions.

Flag Convention and Orientation

The convention for flags, adopted by many countries and organizations, is to have the attachment for the flag on the 'Field' side, which is the natural left of the flag's emblem. The field, in this case, is the background of the flag, which is dark blue with the stars. The flag is read from left to right in most languages, with the attachment points on the left.

Why are the stars on the left? It is a matter of perspective and convention. When a flag is displayed, it should always be oriented such that the viewer’s left would be the field side; therefore, the stars appear on the left. This is why the American flag is referred to as being flown 'from the stars side.'

Conclusion

The positioning of the American flag is a result of historical convention and practicality, rather than any inherent symbolism related to 'the stars side' being more important. Understanding flag orientation and Convention helps in maintaining respect for the flag and its historical significance.

Additional Resources

For more information on flag etiquette and the significance of the American flag, refer to the following resources:

U.S. Flag Code Guidelines for Displaying the Flag Understanding American Flag Symbols

By respecting these conventions, individuals and organizations can ensure the proper display and reverence of the American flag.