Section: Symbols & Holidays: Symbols

122. Why does the flag have 50 stars?

Official answer

  • • (Because there is) one star for each state
  • • (Because) each star represents a state
  • • (Because there are) 50 states

Why

The 50 stars represent the 50 states of the United States.

Answers verified against USCIS materials. Last checked 2026-07-17.

Official source: USCIS — 128 Civics Questions and Answers (2025)