How many stars are on the American flag?

The American flag features 50 stars, which represent the 50 states of the United States. Each star is a symbol of one state, showcasing the union’s composition and unity. The current design of the flag was adopted on July 4, 1960, after Hawaii was admitted as the 50th state. The arrangement of the stars in nine rows of alternating five and six stars is also significant as it provides a balanced appearance for the flag.

In contrast, the numbers 48, 52, and 51 do not reflect the current number of states in the union, making them incorrect. The historical context of the flag shows that before the addition of Alaska and Hawaii, there were indeed 48 states represented, but since 1960, that number has remained at 50. The flag's design and the number of stars symbolize the country’s unity and diversity, reinforcing the importance of each state's representation in the national identity.