Vertical blue, white, and red stripes with eagle and motto ribbon on white stripe.
Ratio: 2:3
Vertical tricolour of blue, white, red — the French heritage acknowledged. Across the white flies a bald eagle holding a ribbon: Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. The name “Iowa” anchors the flag plainly below.
Flag Symbolism & Meaning
tricolor
Echoes Iowa’s French heritage.
eagle
Symbol of the United States.
motto ribbon
Displays the state motto: ‘Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain.’
Historical Timeline
1846
Iowa admitted as 29th state.
1921
Flag adopted officially.
Fascinating Facts
1
The French tricolor reflects early colonial influence.
2
Iowa’s flag prominently features its state motto.
For Students & Teachers
Key Learning Points (4-12)
Explain Iowa’s French influence.
Identify and interpret state motto.
State Information
- Population
- 3,190,369
- Area
- 56,273
- Founded
- 1846-12-28
- Region
- Midwest