California Flag is at Full Mast Today

Brief History of the California State Flag

The history of the California flag is a long and varied one. The current flag, which features a red star and a red stripe on a field of white, was adopted in 1911. However, this was not the first flag to represent the state. In fact, the first California flag dates all the way back to 1846.

The Bear Flag Revolt and the First California Flag
The first California flag was created during the Bear Flag Revolt. This revolt was a short-lived uprising against Mexican rule that took place in 1846. During the revolt, a group of American settlers captured an American fort in Sonoma. They then raised a homemade flag over the fort. This flag featured a red stripe and a white star on a field of blue. This flag became known as the “Bear Flag” and was used as a symbol of defiance against Mexican rule.

After California became part of America in 1848, the bear flag was officially adopted as the state’s flag. However, this only lasted until 1851 when it was replaced by a new design. This new design featured a red stripe and a yellow stripe on a field of blue. The new flag also included the words “California Republic” in white letters. Thisflag remained in use until 1911 when it was replaced by the current design.

The Current Design of the California Flag
The current design of the California flag was adopted in 1911. It features a red star and red stripe on a field of white. This design is based on an earlier design that was created by William Todd in 1846. Todd’s design featured a single red star on a field of white. However, it did not include any stripes. The current design includes two stripes to represent the Bear Flag Revolt and also includes Todd’s original single red star.


The California flag is one that has undergone many changes over the years. The current flag, which features a red star and red stripe on a field of white, was adopted in 1911 but has roots dating back to 1846 when the first California flag was flown during the Bear Flag Revolt. The current flag is based on an earlier design created by William Todd which featured a single red star on a field of white but did not include any stripes like the current flags does. For over 100 years now, Californians have been flying this iconic flag with pride Knowing its rich history only makes it all the more special!