The American flag is also known as the Stars and Stripes or the Old Glory. In June 14, 1977, the Continental Congress passed an act establishing an official flag for the new nation stating, “Resolved, that the flag of the United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.” Although its origin is unclear, it is said to be designed by New Jersey Congressman Francis Hopkinson and sewn by Philadelphia seamstress Betsy Ross. Between 1777 and 1960, the Congress passed several acts that changed the shape, design and arrangement of the flag and allowed stars to be added to reflect the admission of each new state. Today, the flag of the United States of America consists of thirteen horizontal stripes, seven red alternating with six white. The stripes represent the thirteen Colonies and the stars represent the fifty states of the Union. The colors; red symbolizes hardiness and valor, white symbolizes purity and innocence, while blue represents vigilance, perseverance and justice.