However, the 'Continental Colours,' or #GrandUnionFlag (pictured), served as the de facto flag of the new nation from when it was first raised by newly appointed Lieutenant John Paul Jones on December 3, 1775, until the Second Continental Congress passed the Flag Resolution on June 14, 1777.

Before the Stars and Stripes, the Grand Union Flag flew over the colonies, blending British roots with the spirit of unity. A transitional symbol on the road to independence.

#GrandUnionFlag #RevolutionaryHistory #FirstAmericanFlag #ColonialUnity