Flag of Virginia (US state)

The flag of the state of Virginia is one of the most historically significant and symbolically powerful banners in the United States. Its central emblem, the state seal, was adopted at the very birth of the nation, making it a direct link to the American Revolution. This flag, formally adopted in its modern form on April 30, 1930, is a bold and uncompromising statement about the state's foundational values: liberty, independence, and the triumph of virtue over tyranny.

Flag Design, Symbolism, and Colors

The Virginia flag's design is striking and unique among U.S. state flags for its direct and dramatic allegorical representation.

• Colors and Arrangement: The flag features a deep dark blue field, a color often associated with fidelity and loyalty. In the center of this field is the state's Great Seal, a circular emblem with a blue background.

• The Seal's Allegorical Figures: The heart of the flag's symbolism lies in the two female figures on the seal:

  • Virtus Triumphant: The figure on the left, named Virtus (Virtue), represents the Commonwealth of Virginia. She is dressed as an Amazon, with a spear in one hand and a sheathed parazonium (a short sword) in the other, symbolizing her readiness to defend liberty. Her posture is one of victory and strength.

  • Tyranny Defeated: Beneath her feet lies a defeated figure, representing Tyranny. This figure wears a fallen crown and holds a broken chain and a whip, all symbols of his lost power and oppression. Virtus's foot is on his chest, and her spear is pointed at him, signifying the ultimate victory of freedom over oppression.

• The State Motto: A banner at the bottom of the seal proudly displays the state's Latin motto: "Sic Semper Tyrannis." This powerful phrase translates to "Thus Always to Tyrants," a timeless message of defiance against oppressive rule.

• The Wreath: The entire seal is bordered by a wreath of red clover and Virginia creeper, which are native plants of the state, adding a subtle nod to its natural beauty.

A Brief History of the Flag's Creation and Adoption

The history of the Virginia flag is intertwined with the foundational moments of the United States.

• Revolutionary War Origins: The state seal, and its iconic motto, was created by the Virginia Convention in 1776, just a few weeks after Virginia declared independence from Great Britain. The imagery was a powerful political statement, intended to rally support for the American cause against the perceived tyranny of King George III.

• Civil War Adoption: While the seal existed, it wasn't formally used on a flag until the Civil War. When Virginia seceded from the Union in 1861, a state flag was needed for its military units. The state's seal on a blue field became the unofficial and then official banner of the Commonwealth.

• Modern Codification in 1930: To ensure consistency and officialize the design, the Virginia General Assembly passed a bill on April 30, 1930, formally adopting the flag as it is known today, specifying the dark blue field and the seal's design and colors.

Historical Context and the State of Virginia

The Virginia flag is a profound expression of the state's identity as a cradle of American democracy. It reflects a deep connection to the ideals of the American Revolution and the Enlightenment, emphasizing the fundamental right to overthrow a tyrannical government. The flag serves as a continuous reminder of Virginia's role in producing founding fathers like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison, who championed these very ideals. Its message is both historical and contemporary, speaking to the enduring struggle for liberty and justice.

Significance for Residents

For residents of Virginia, the flag is a source of immense historical pride. It is not just an emblem but a philosophical statement about their state's character. The motto "Sic Semper Tyrannis" embodies a spirit of resilience and a commitment to democratic principles that has been passed down through generations. The flag is a constant reminder of Virginia's unique legacy and its central role in the creation of the United States, representing a state that has always stood firm in the face of oppression.

Interesting Facts

• The Latin motto "Sic Semper Tyrannis" is a phrase famously attributed to Brutus after the assassination of Julius Caesar. Its use on the flag is a powerful and classical anti-tyranny statement.

• The figure of Virtus is often depicted with her left breast exposed, which is a classical symbol of heroic virtue and the willingness to sacrifice everything for liberty. This feature makes it one of the most distinctive and controversial state flags in the U.S.

• The seal and motto were adopted on July 5, 1776, just one day after the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence.

• The flag's design is the oldest in terms of the origin of its central symbol, which dates back to the American Revolution.

• The red clover, a native plant, is sometimes mistakenly confused with a flower. The wreath is a significant detail, symbolizing the natural beauty and abundance of the Commonwealth.

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