How it fits together
The flag connects the country’s beginnings with its present: 13 stripes represent the original colonies, and 50 stars represent the states. The motto E Pluribus Unum expresses unity from many parts. These symbols convey ideas rather than adding new rules to the Constitution.
A closer look
Keep places and names distinct. Washington, D.C. is the national capital; it is not Washington state. The Statue of Liberty stands on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. The national anthem is The Star-Spangled Banner; learning its title is enough for that question, without singing the song.