Join, or Die

Join, or Die, 3x5' polyester, heading tape and brass grommets

The "Join, or Die" flag is a powerful and historically significant symbol that dates back to the mid-18th century. It was created by Benjamin Franklin and first appeared in his Pennsylvania Gazette on May 9, 1754. The flag features a segmented snake, cut into eight parts, each labeled with the initials of one of the American colonies or regions. The segments of the snake represent:

1. New England (often collectively represented by one segment)
2. New York
3. New Jersey
4. Pennsylvania
5. Maryland
6. Virginia
7. North Carolina
8. South Carolina

The symbolism of the flag is rich and multifaceted:

Snake Symbolism

• Resilience and Unity: The snake, when whole, symbolizes strength and vitality. However, when divided, it is weak and lifeless. This represents the need for the colonies to unite in order to survive and thrive.
• Myth of the Regenerative Snake: There was a popular myth at the time that a snake cut into pieces could come back to life if the pieces were rejoined before sunset. This underscored the urgency of unity for the colonies.

Join, or Die Slogan

• Call to Unity: The slogan "Join, or Die" is a stark and urgent call for the colonies to unite against common threats. Initially, this was against French and Native American forces during the French and Indian War, but it later took on greater significance during the American Revolution as a call to unite against British rule.
• Consequence of Division: The "or Die" part of the slogan emphasized the dire consequences of not coming together. It implied that failure to unite would lead to the destruction or subjugation of the colonies.

Historical Context

• French and Indian War: Franklin originally created the flag to rally the colonies to support the Albany Plan of Union, which sought to form a unified colonial government for mutual defense during the French and Indian War.
• American Revolution: The flag was later used during the American Revolution to encourage unity among the colonies against British oppression, becoming a symbol of colonial resistance and solidarity.

Legacy

• Symbol of American Unity: The "Join, or Die" flag remains an enduring symbol of American unity and the importance of cooperation among states and regions. It highlights the belief that strength and survival come from working together.
• Cultural Impact: The flag has been referenced and reproduced in various forms throughout American history, symbolizing the enduring principle of unity in the face of adversity.

In summary, the "Join, or Die" flag is a powerful emblem of unity and resistance, emphasizing the necessity of cooperation among the American colonies to overcome common threats and challenges. Its imagery and message have left a lasting legacy in American history and culture.