Flag of Illinois

Proportions: 2:3, 3:5 or 5:8 Illinois Flag Description:
The flag of Illinois consists of a white base with a simplified version of the state seal in the center. Illinois is written under the seal. The seal features a bald eagle grasping a shield with 13 stars and 13 stripes. The eagle is also holding a ribbon in its mouth with the state motto: State Sovereignty, National Unity. The eagle is sitting on a rock with the years 1868 and 1818 written on it.

Illinois Flag Meaning:
The state seal was influenced by the seal of the United States. The 13 stars and 13 stripes represent the 13 original colonies of the Union and Illinois' loyalty to the United States. The water in the seal symbolizes Lake Michigan. The date 1818 is the year Illinois became a state and 1868 relates to the year the state seal of Illinois was redesigned.

Illinois Flag History:
The basic design of the flag originated in 1915. The name Illinois was added to the flag in July 1970, which is when this flag was last modified. Illinois is the 21st state of the union, gaining statehood on Dec. 3, 1818. In 1868 the ribbon on the seal was modified to make National Unity appear more prominent than State Sovereignty; this occurred shortly after the US Civil War.

Interesting Illinois Facts:
Illinois's state nickname is the Prairie State.