The American Flag: An Encyclopedia of the Stars and Stripes in U.S. History Culture and Law

About this book

At a time when the U.S. flag is both a source of both pride and controversy this volume provides the first encyclopedic A-to-Z treatment of the U.S. flag in American history culture and law. This title is a comprehensive resource for understanding all aspects of the American flag and its relationship to the American people. The encyclopedia provides a thorough historical examination of key developments in the flags design as well as laws and court decisions related to the flag and the First Amendment. In relation to the flags history it also discusses evolving public attitudes about its importance as a national symbol. The encyclopedia contains illuminating scholarly essays on presentations of the flag in American politics the military and popular culture including art music and journalism. Additionally these essays address important rules of flag etiquette and modern controversies related to them from flag-burning to refusing to stand during the playing of the U.S. National Anthem.