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Florida State Flag

Sunshine State

Capital
Tallahassee
Statehood
1845
Region
Southeast
Flag Adopted
1900-05-21
Flag of Florida

White field with red diagonal cross and state seal at center.

Ratio: 2:3

A red saltire on white, over which sits the state seal. Palms, water and sun reflect Florida’s warmth; a Seminole woman scatters flowers at the water’s edge. The flag is a collision of colonial cross and subtropical abundance.

Flag Symbolism & Meaning

red saltire

Represents heritage and is reminiscent of the Confederate battle flag.

state seal

Highlights Florida’s natural beauty and resources, including a Seminole woman, steamboat, and sabal palm.

Historical Timeline

1845

Florida admitted as 27th state.

1900

Red saltire added to the flag.

Fascinating Facts

1

One of two state flags with a red saltire (the other is Alabama).

2

Florida is known as the Sunshine State for its climate and tourism.

For Students & Teachers

Key Learning Points (4-8)

Compare Florida’s and Alabama’s saltire flags.

Explain the elements in the state seal.

State Information

Population
21,538,187
Area
65,758
Founded
1845-03-03
Region
Southeast