The historical origin of flags dates back to around 1000 BC, when the Egyptians used primitive versions of flags – some were even made out of wood or metal. Flags were originally used for the purpose of identification or to signal to others. Although flags are still used for many of those reasons today, flags have also come to be used for much more.
Flags have also been important symbols on land as well as on sea. Ships started using flags at sea to signal to each other and to harbors, often to let them know they had an infectious or diseased crew aboard. Flags are still used today to let sailors know what weather conditions await at sea. The military also made use of flags to rally its troops. In military times, capturing an enemy’s flag was considered an honorable seizure.
Although the most popular use of flags today is to identify the world’s countries, the use of national flags didn’t become commonplace until the 18th century. National flags are now used to identify each country and their symbolism.
When Mount Everest and the moon were conquered, and when new found lands were discovered, explorers would raise flags as signs of their being the first to tread these unchartered lands. Flags have also been used historically, many with negative consequences. For example, ancient pirates used flags decorated with the feared skull and crossbones emblem, and the Nazis used a flag decorated with a swastika.
Today, flags are still used to signify crucial events. For example, if you are offside in a soccer game, the linesman raises his flag, or when an auto race begins a flag is traditionally waved to start the race.
In fact, the numerous uses for flags and their examination have become so popular that the practice of ‘vexillology’, which means the academic study of flags, has been developed.
Posted by Lexi the Vexillologist 
January 1 (New Year’s Day) – New Year’s Day celebrates the beginning of a new year according to the Gregorian calendar which is generally accepted in the USA. It is normally accompanied by fireworks and kisses at the turn of 12 AM. New York holds the largest celebration in New York where the “ball” drops at the turn of midnight
January 20th (Inauguration day) – Inauguration Day occurs every 4 years and coincides with the inauguration of new presidents. The last Inauguration Day to take place was on January 20th, 2009 with President 
Martin Luther King Jr. (3rd Monday in January) – 
President’s Day (3rd Monday in February) – President’s Day was first established by Congress in 1880 to honor George 
Easter Sunday (April 4th, 2010) – Easter is celebrated on the 1st Sunday of April following the first full moon of the vernal equinox. It is considered by many to be one of the most important Holidays in the 
Mothers Day (Second Sunday in May) – Mother’s Day was first established by 
Peace Officers Memorial Day (May 15th, 2010) – Peace Officers Memorial Day pays tribute to all of the Federal, State, and local peace officers who protect us from crime, harm, and terrorism. It is recognized on May 15th and gives thanks to the many of officers have paid the ultimate price for the protection of our freedoms. The flag is to be flown at half-staff on this day.
Memorial Day (Last Monday in May) – Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May each year. It honors those who have served and died while serving in the 
Flag Day (June 14th) – The United State Flag Day celebrates the adoption of the 
Independence Day (July 4th) – Independence Day is celebrated every July 4th in the United States and represents the independence of the 13 original colonies from the British. It was originally adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4th, 1776 and the Declaration was mainly written by 
Labor Day (1st Monday in September) – 
Patriot Day (September 11th) – Patriot Day occurs on September 11 of each year. It honors the many lives lost in the Sept. 11 attack of 2001 and was originally signed into law on December 18, 2001 by President George W. Bush. It is marked by flying flags at half-staff throughout the day at homes, government offices, and the White House. Also, we are asked to observe a moment of silence at 8:46 AM which marks the time when the first plane hit the World Trade Center.
Constitution Day (September 17th) – Constitution Day is recognized on September 17th of each year and is in observance of the ratification of the Constitution of the United States. September 17th marks the date when Constitution was signed by Constitutional Convention in 1787. The law establishing Constitution Day was not created until 2004 though. When the 17th falls on a weekend, schools and other institutions will recognize the Holiday on an adjacent weekday, either the Friday before or Monday following.
POW/MIA Recognition Day (3rd Friday in September) – National POW/MIA Recognition Day is celebrated on the 3rd Friday of each September. Designed to honor all of the prisoners of war and those missing in action, it is one of the only Holidays where the black and white 
Columbus Day (2nd Monday in October; October 12th at Foreign Service posts) – Columbus Day celebrates the anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ arrival into the Americas on October 12, 1492. It is not only recognized by the US, but also by many countries in the “New World”. In the US, It was first officially celebrated by 
Veterans Day (November 11th) – Give thanks to all of the brave men and women who have served in the US Military on Veterans Day this November 11th. It was first proclaimed as Armistice Day on November 12, 1919 by Woodrow Wilson. It was officially changed to Veterans Day on November 8th, 1954 replacing Armistice with Veterans to honor all veterans throughout each war of the United States. When November 11th falls on a Sunday, the Holiday day off is pushed to the following Monday.
Thanksgiving (4th Thursday in November) – Thanksgiving Day is celebrated on the 4th Thursday of each November and was originally designed to give thanks for the reaped harvest of the autumn. Thanksgiving dinner is common and is generally eaten with friends and family. 
Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (December 7th) – Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day takes place each year on December 7th, the date of the Pearl Harbor attacks in 1941. It is designed to give thanks and remembrance for the many service men and women who lost their lives on that day. Pearl Harbor marks the second worst foreign attack on American soil behind 9/11/01. Flags are asked to be flown at half-staff on this day.
Christmas Day (December 25th) – Christmas is generally regarded as the largest Holiday in the USA and is characterized by presents and gifts given between people. This holiday is designed to celebrate the birth of Jesus of Nazareth. It occurs on December 25th of each year. The holiday is characterized with presents, Christmas trees, and food.
Posted by Lexi the Vexillologist 
Posted by Lexi the Vexillologist 
