Flag of Massachusetts (US state)

The flag of the state of Massachusetts is a complex and historically layered symbol that reflects the state’s dual identity as a cradle of American liberty and a land with a complex colonial past. While its core design dates back to the early 20th century, the flag is currently the subject of an ongoing redesign effort, signifying Massachusetts’s commitment to critically examining its history and adopting symbols that are more inclusive and representative of all its residents.

Flag Design, Symbolism, and Elements

The flag of Massachusetts features the state's coat of arms prominently centered on a white field.

• The White Field: The simple white background serves to highlight the central coat of arms, which is the main element of the flag's design.

• The Coat of Arms: This central emblem is rich with symbolism:

  • The Shield: The main element of the coat of arms is a blue shield. A Native American figure, specifically an Algonquian, stands in the center, holding a bow in one hand and an arrow pointing downwards in the other. The downward-pointing arrow is a symbol of peace. A white, five-pointed star is placed near the figure's head, representing Massachusetts as one of the original 13 colonies.

  • The Crest: Above the shield is a crest with a bent arm holding a broadsword. This element, combined with the motto, represents the state's readiness to defend its liberty and freedom.

  • The Motto: A blue ribbon encircles the shield with the Latin motto "EN SE PETIT PLACIDAM SUB LIBERTATE QUIETEM," which translates to "By the sword we seek peace, but peace only under liberty." This profound phrase encapsulates the state's history of fighting for freedom.

• Dimensions: The official dimensions of the flag are not strictly defined, but it is generally produced in a standard ratio of 3:5 or 2:3.

A Brief History of the Flag's Creation and Evolution

The history of the Massachusetts flag is a story of gradual evolution and recent, deliberate change.

• Early Flags: Before a formal state flag was adopted, Massachusetts used various banners, including the famous "Pine Tree Flag" of the American Revolution, which featured a pine tree on a white field with the motto "An Appeal to Heaven."

• Adoption of the Coat of Arms (1908): The design with the coat of arms on a white field was first adopted by the legislature in 1908. This flag was also notable for having a different design on its reverse side, a green pine tree on a blue field.

• Standardization (1971): The flag was re-standardized in 1971 as part of a legislative effort, but the two-sided design with the pine tree on the reverse remained.

• The 2021 Changes and Redesign Commission: For many years, the flag's imagery, particularly the Native American figure and the sword, was a source of controversy. Critics argued that the symbols were offensive and perpetuated stereotypes and a history of colonial violence. In 2021, a commission was created to study and recommend a new design for the state flag and seal. While the commission's work is ongoing, a temporary change was made: the reverse side of the flag was legally changed to be identical to the front, effectively retiring the controversial pine tree emblem from the state's official banner.

Historical Context and the State of Massachusetts

The Massachusetts flag is a powerful link to the state's colonial and revolutionary heritage. The symbolism of the coat of arms speaks to the foundational values of the Bay State: a fierce commitment to liberty and a willingness to fight for it. The Latin motto, an ode to the ideals of freedom, is a constant reminder of the state’s pivotal role in the founding of the United States. The current effort to redesign the flag is a reflection of a modern-day Massachusetts that is ready to confront its full history, including its difficult colonial past, and create a symbol that is inclusive and respectful of all of its citizens.

Significance for Residents

For residents of Massachusetts, the flag is a complex symbol of pride and progress. It represents a deep connection to the state's historical role in the American Revolution and its enduring motto of liberty. Simultaneously, the ongoing redesign process shows that the state is not static. It is a living symbol of a community that values self-reflection and change, and is actively working to create a more inclusive and equitable future for all of its people. The flag's future design will be a testament to the state's ability to honor its past while building a new, more representative identity.

Interesting Facts

• The motto "Ense Petit Placidam Sub Libertate Quietem" is a quote from the English politician Algernon Sidney, who was executed for his republican ideals in the 17th century.

• The Native American figure on the coat of arms is based on a 17th-century woodcut portrait of Chickataubut, a sachem (leader) of the Massachusett tribe.

• The flag was one of the few in the U.S. that historically had different designs on its front and back. The pine tree on the reverse was a nod to the "Pine Tree Flag" of the American Revolution.

• A key part of the recent controversy was the pine tree emblem on the reverse of the flag and the Native American figure on the front, both of which are under review by the redesign commission.

• The star on the shield represents the status of Massachusetts as one of the original 13 colonies, a powerful nod to its historical significance in the founding of the nation.

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