Why does the US flag have 13 stripes?

The correct answer is based on the historical context of the United States' founding. The 13 stripes on the U.S. flag represent the original 13 colonies that declared independence from Britain in 1776. These colonies were crucial in the formation of the United States, and the stripes serve as a reminder of that foundational aspect of the nation’s history.

Each stripe, alternating red and white, honors the unity and the struggles of those early colonies. The significance of the colonies is foundational to American identity, symbolizing the birth of the nation. This choice emphasizes the connection to the country's roots, illustrating the evolution from a collection of colonies to a united nation.

Understanding this context helps to appreciate why the flag was designed this way, focusing on its connection to the nation's history rather than other aspects such as the number of states or references to presidents and mottos. This historical symbol continues to resonate with the ideals of liberty and independence for which the original colonies fought.