From its rebellious beginnings to its status as a global icon, the California flag tells a story of trailblazers, dreamers, and fierce independence. Affectionately known as the Bear Flag, its design is a powerful symbol of the state's rugged beauty, rich history, and untamable spirit.
At Flags For Good, we donāt just sell flags; we celebrate the stories they represent. When you fly a California flag, you're not just showing state prideāyou're honoring a legacy of defiance and innovation.
From Revolt to Republic: The Flag's Origin
The story of this flag begins with an uprising. On June 14, 1846, a group of American settlers in the Mexican territory of California launched the "Bear Flag Revolt." They marched on Sonoma, declared California an independent republic, and hoisted a makeshift flag featuring a crude drawing of a bear, a single red star, and a stripe of red flannel. That original, rustic banner was the direct inspiration for the flag we know today.
The modern Bear Flag was officially adopted by the state legislature in 1911, forever cementing the spirit of the short-lived California Republic.
The Meaning Behind the Bear Flag
Every element of the California flag is a nod to its revolutionary past and core values:
The Grizzly Bear: This represents strength and untamed power. The specific bear, "Monarch," was a real 1,200-pound grizzly captured in 1889, symbolizing the state's magnificent and wild spirit.
The Single Star: This could be a tribute to previous American independence movements (Texas Republic, West Florida Republic, etc.) or the Alvarado flag of California, which had been created a few years prior. Historians don't agree and we may never know for sure!
Your Piece of California History
Want to learn more? We have a video that dives deeper into the fascinating history of the California flag on our Youtube Channel.
Whether you're a proud Californian or an admirer of its pioneering history, our collection has the perfect way to showcase that spirit. From high-quality flags to stickers, pins, and patches, you can find your own piece of the Golden State's enduring legacy of strength and independence.
