White field with coat of arms and motto ribbon.
Ratio: 2:3
A white field with a blue shield: an Algonquin figure holding a bow, a star above. An arm brandishes a sword as crest, while the motto proclaims By the sword we seek peace, but peace only under liberty. Spare in colour, weighty in meaning.
Flag Symbolism & Meaning
Native American figure
Represents the people of Massachusetts.
star
Signifies Massachusetts as one of the original states.
motto
‘Ense petit placidam sub libertate quietem’ means ‘By the sword we seek peace, but peace only under liberty.’
Historical Timeline
1788
Massachusetts admitted as 6th state.
1971
Modern flag design confirmed.
Fascinating Facts
1
One of few state flags depicting a Native American.
2
Reverse side of earlier flags once showed a pine tree.
For Students & Teachers
Key Learning Points (5-12)
Interpret Massachusetts’s motto.
Discuss history of pine tree in early flags.
State Information
- Population
- 7,029,917
- Area
- 10,565
- Founded
- 1788-02-06
- Region
- Northeast