Rattlesnake Flags (US Historical)

Origin of the Rattlesnake

The rattlesnake, an indigenous and potent symbol of the American lands, became an emblem of American independence and tenacity. Its use as a political symbol was popularized by none other than Benjamin Franklin. In a 1751 satire, Franklin suggested shipping rattlesnakes to Britain as a commentary on the colonies' displeasure with the Mother Country. His famous 'Join, or Die' woodcut, published in 1754, depicted a fragmented snake representing the necessity for colonial unity.

Gadsden

The Gadsden flag is perhaps the best-known example of rattlesnake symbology. Conceived by Colonel Christopher Gadsden, a politician from South Carolina, it featured a coiled rattlesnake on a yellow field with the stark warning, 'Don't Tread on Me'. This historical banner was first hoisted in 1775 during the incipient stages of the American Revolution, embodying a collective resolve against oppression.

First Navy Jack

The First Navy Jack flag, with its distinctive stripes and an intrepid rattlesnake, has been long associated with the United States Navy. This variant displayed thirteen alternating red and white stripes and a coiled snake with the same menacing motto, symbolizing unity and readiness to defend against tyranny. Though not originally a jack, it is now a proud fixture aboard naval vessels.

Culpeper

The legitimacy of the Culpeper flag may be historically debated, yet it is an iconic symbol often associated with the Culpeper Minutemen of Virginia. The flag is said to depict a rattlesnake with the words 'Liberty or Death', encapsulating the fierce spirit of those who were ready to fight at a minute's notice for their freedoms.

Other Rattlesnake Flags

Besides the better-known Gadsden and First Navy Jack flags, there were several other banners incorporating the rattlesnake motif during the Revolutionary period. Sullivan's Life Guards flag, the South Carolina Navy ensign, and the flag of the 2nd Pennsylvania Regiment each adopted the rattlesnake with varying designs and mottos, reflecting the widespread appeal of the symbol across different military units.

Combining History and Travel

For history enthusiasts and travelers alike, a journey through the regions where these rattlesnake flags once fluttered can be a powerful experience. Visiting sites like Fort Nassau on Providence Island or the historic battlefields of the Carolinas can provide a tangible connection to America's revolutionary heritage. Each flag a reminder of the storied past, they can offer inspiration to explore the rich tapestry of events that shaped a nation's identity.