| What is the design of the Michigan state flag? |
| | The design is a field of azure blue containing an image of the Seal of Michigan |
| What does the eagle symbolize? (See enlarged picture on your left) |
| | The eagle is the emblem of the United States of America and Michigan demonstrates its loyalty by its inclusion on its flag which is further emphasized by the inclusion of the US motto "E pluribus unum" a phrase which means 'Out of many, one'. |
| | In heraldry the eagle was a symbol held by men of action and ingenuity, occupied with weighty affairs. |
| | The eagle was intended to at once to recall the might of the Roman Empire and at the same time be uniquely American (the Bald Eagle being indigenous to North America). |
| | The Bald eagle is depicted with its wings "displayed" which is a symbol of protection and in its talons holds three arrows and an olive branch. |
| What do the moose and the elk symbolize? |
| | The central shield is flanked by an elk on the left and a moose on the right, both are symbols of Michigan. In heraldry antlers represent strength and fortitude |
| What does the image on the shield symbolize? |
| | The image on the shield (see picture) depicts the sun and landscape with a male figure holding a long gun in one hand whilst the other is raised. The man therefore represents peace but also the ability to defend his rights, continuing the theme of the eagle symbolism |
| What are the colors and what do the colors mean, or symbolize, in heraldry? |
| | The color red is a symbol of hardiness, bravery, strength & valor |
| | The color blue symbolizes vigilance, truth and loyalty, perseverance & justice |
| | The color white is a symbol of peace and honesty |
| | The American combination of red, white and blue symbolizes revolution and freedom |
| What is the shape and flag ratio? The 'Hoist' is the width and the 'Fly' is the length. |
| | The ratio is 2:3 meaning it is 2 units tall for every 3 units wide. |
| Who designed the Michigan State Seal pictured on the Flag? |
| | The name of the designer was by General Lewis Cass (1782-1866), Michigan's second (non-acting) Territorial governor |
| What is the history of the Michigan State Flag? |
| | The first state flag featured Michigan’s first governor, Stevens Thomson Mason (1811-1843), on one side and the coat of arms on the other |
| | 1865: Tom Mason was replaced by the United States coat of arms in the second version |
| When was the Michigan State Flag officially adopted by the state's legislature? (Most US flags were designed in 19th & 20th centuries) |
| | It was officially adopted June 26, 1911 |
| What is the Pledge of Allegiance and Salute? |
| | The Pledge of Allegiance is as follows: "I pledge allegiance to the flag of Michigan, and to the state for which it stands, 2 beautiful peninsulas united by a bridge of steel, where equal opportunity and justice to all is our ideal." |
| | The salute should be made by standing at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. |
| The Michigan flag is kept and used as required by the code specified in the constitution of the state. |