Last updated on September 14th, 2022
5 Facts About the Flag of Florida
1. The state flag of Florida has had several versions since the mid 19th century. During the 16th century, Florida was a Spanish territory and several different Spanish regional flags were used. One later design from 1845 displayed the sometimes controversial motto ‘Let us Alone.’
2. Florida’s flag has been voted as the 34th best design out of 72 US and Canadian flag designs from the states, provinces and territories. During the early 20th century, the diagonal red lines were added to the flag so the white background didn’t resemble the flag of surrender.
3. The seal of the state of Florida was added to the flag in the 1860s. It depicts things often associated with the state, including palm trees, lakes and the sun, as well as a Seminole Indian woman. In 1970, the headdress was removed from the figure of the Seminole Indian.
4. Following reassigned territory in North America after the 1763 Treaty of Paris, Florida was under British rule for a period during the late 18th century. During those 20 years, the distinctive British Union Jack flew over Florida, until the Spanish regained control in 1783.
5. The flag that can be seen all over the Sunshine State today dates from 1900, when a vote meant that the diagonal red lines were added. The Cross of Burgundy, as it’s called, is a reminder of Spanish rule over the state and it also represents the cross on which St. Andrew was crucified.