During the early days of the American Revolutionary War, the need for a national flag became increasingly apparent. The various militias and colonies had been using their own flags, which represented local interests rather than a unified identity. In light of this, the Second Continental Congress convened in Philadelphia to create a single flag that would symbolize the unity of the thirteen colonies. On June 14, 1777, the Congress officially adopted the Flag Act, declaring that the new flag would consist of thirteen alternating red and white stripes and a blue field with thirteen white stars, representing the states. This design was conceived by Frances Hopkinson, a member of Congress and a flag designer, although the exact number of stars and their arrangement has evolved over time as new states joined the Union. The adoption of the Stars and Stripes was not just a practical decision but a potent symbol of resistance against British tyranny, reflecting the colonies' aspirations for independence and governance. The new flag was first flown by the Continental Army and soon became an emblem of American identity and values.