Missouri State Flags

History of the Missouri State Flag

The Missouri state flag consists of three equal-sized horizontal bands of red, white, and blue with the Missouri coat of arms in the center of the white band. The coat of arms features a blue shield with a grizzly bear, a crescent moon, and the state motto "United We Stand, Divided We Fall" above the shield. The flag also includes the words "Missouri" and "Salus Populi Suprema Lex Esto" (Latin for "The welfare of the people shall be the supreme law") on the white band.

The Missouri state flag was adopted on March 22, 1913. The red, white, and blue color scheme of the flag is based on the American flag, as Missouri was admitted to the United States as a state in 1821. The coat of arms, which features a grizzly bear, is a reference to Missouri's history as a frontier state. The grizzly bear is also a symbol of strength and determination, qualities that Missourians are known for. The crescent moon on the coat of arms represents Missouri's history as a French territory. The state motto, "United We Stand, Divided We Fall," reflects the importance of unity in the face of challenges.