What is the meaning behind the flag’s nickname, the Stars and Stripes?

The nickname Stars and Stripes for the flag of the United States refers to the flag’s design, which features 50 white stars on a blue canton and a field of alternating red and white horizontal stripes. The stars represent the 50 states of the Union, while the 13 stripes symbolize the original 13 states.

The Continental Congress officially approved the first national flag on June 14, 1777. It had 13 white stars and 13 alternating red and white stripes, and was dubbed the Stars and Stripes. The number of stars and stripes has changed over time, primarily with stars being added to reflect the admittance of new states.