This volume describes and portrays in full four-color paintings throughout, a comprehensive selection of flags which have played a vital part in American history from the beginnings of European settlement on our shores to the present time.

Some of these flags flew proudly for many years or even centuries (indeed, several of them still do) as the banners of mighty nations, while others fluttered for a few days or hours of brief glory during some bloody battle or grim siege. All of them have, in one fashion or another, embodied the hopes and emotions of those who struggled in bitter combat or prospered in happy peace beneath them. Eighty-nine flags are illustrated and identified, with accompanying text giving their significance in America's history.

From the dust jacket