Flags of States and Territories
Entered the Union in 1818 as the 21st State; flag adopted in 1915, modified in 1970. The central design is from the State seal and shows national symbols plus dates of Statehood (1818) and the seal itself (1868).
Entered the Union in 1816 as the 19th State; flag adopted in 1917. The outer ring of stars is for the original States, the inner ring for those up to and including Indiana. Enlightenment and liberty spreading throughout the land are represented by the torch and rays.
Entered the Union in 1846 as the 29th State; flag adopted in 1921. The eagle and motto ribbon are found in the State seal. The stripes recall the French Tricolor since Iowa was acquired from France as part of the Louisiana Purchase.
Entered the Union in 1861 as the 34th State; flag adopted in 1925, modified in 1927 and 1963. A sunflower, the State floral emblem, appears above the State seal with figures representing pioneer life. The motto means "To the Stars Through Difficulties."