Flag of Illinois (US state)

The flag of the state of Illinois is a banner steeped in history, defined by its central state seal and a journey to achieve a clear, proud identity. Officially adopted in 1915 and significantly modified in 1970, the flag serves as a visual testament to the state’s values, its rich heritage as the “Land of Lincoln,” and its pivotal role in the nation's development. Its detailed design, while complex, tells a comprehensive story of Illinois’s past and its enduring spirit.

Flag Design, Symbolism, and Colors

The Illinois flag is a striking display of intricate detail on a simple background, with each element of its seal telling a part of the state's story.

• Colors and Arrangement: The flag’s field is a solid white, a color traditionally associated with peace and purity. At its center is the official Great Seal of Illinois, a multi-colored emblem. Below the seal, the name "ILLINOIS" is prominently displayed in a bold, blue font.

• The Great Seal: The seal is the centerpiece of the flag, packed with symbolism:

  • The Eagle: A bald eagle, the national bird, stands on a rock. In its beak, a banner unfurls with the state motto: "State Sovereignty, National Union." This motto reflects the crucial balance of power and unity that defined the 19th-century American political landscape.

  • The Shield: The eagle holds a shield with 13 stripes and 13 stars, representing the original 13 colonies. This reinforces Illinois's role as a vital part of the broader American nation.

  • Dates: The rock beneath the eagle displays two significant dates: 1818, the year Illinois was admitted to the Union, and 1868, the year the state seal was redesigned.

  • The Landscape: A prairie landscape with a rising sun in the background symbolizes progress and the vast natural resources of the state.

• The Name "ILLINOIS": The addition of the name "ILLINOIS" in 1970 was a crucial step in giving the flag its own distinct identity. Prior to this change, the flag was often confused with those of other states that also feature a seal on a white or blue field. This addition made the flag instantly recognizable.

A Brief History of the Flag's Creation and Adoption

The Illinois flag's history is a story of evolution, reflecting the changing needs and identity of the state.

• The First Official Flag (1915): The first official state flag was the result of a contest. The competition was initiated by Mrs. Ella Park Lawrence, a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). The winning design, featuring the state seal on a white field, was submitted by Lucy Derwent and was adopted by the Illinois General Assembly on July 6, 1915.

• The 1970 Amendment: By the mid-20th century, the need for a more identifiable flag became apparent. A campaign led by Chief Petty Officer Bruce H. McDaniel of the U.S. Navy brought the issue to the forefront. He noticed that many people, even within the state, could not identify the Illinois flag. This led to a new law being passed, and on July 1, 1970, the flag was officially updated to include the state's name.

Historical Context and the State of Illinois

The Illinois flag’s design, and its motto in particular, harks back to a period of intense political debate in the United States. The phrase "State Sovereignty, National Union" was a direct response to the tension between state rights and federal authority, a central theme in the Civil War era. The flag's design links the state to this critical period of national history, celebrating its role in preserving the Union and its identity as the home of Abraham Lincoln. The prairie landscape and the eagle symbolize Illinois’s blend of rural heartland heritage and its strong national presence.

Significance for Residents

For residents of Illinois, the flag is a proud symbol of their state's unique character. It represents a deep connection to a history that includes both the pioneers who settled the prairie and the great leaders who shaped the nation. The inclusion of the state's name, a result of a citizen-led campaign, is a point of pride, symbolizing a community that values its distinct identity. The flag serves as a reminder of the state’s legacy of progress, its vital role in American history, and the resilience of its people.

Interesting Facts

• The Illinois state motto, "State Sovereignty, National Union," is unique for its order, with "State Sovereignty" placed first, a detail that was at times controversial in the past.

• The designer of the first flag, Lucy Derwent, was inspired by a similar flag she had seen used by an Illinois infantry regiment during the Civil War.

• The campaign to add the name to the flag was started by a U.S. Navy serviceman who noticed a lack of recognition for the flag, even among fellow Illinoisans.

• The dates on the seal, 1818 and 1868, refer to the year the state was admitted to the Union and the year the current version of the state seal was adopted, respectively.

• The flag is one of several U.S. state flags that have undergone a major redesign to add the state's name for improved clarity and recognition.

In the demonstration images, full-size flags are shown with proportions of 2:3, and hand-held flags with proportions of 1:2.