A Flag of Conviction (Gadsden flag)

The Claremont Institute ^ | May 31, 2002 | Matthew Robinson

[seton89]

The coiled snake might seem a strange symbol today. But it was and is effective. No American who ever sees it forgets — and that's just the kind of message the revolutionaries wanted to send.

For those early Americans, the rattlesnake had special significance. Like liberty, the rattler was found only in America. But that wasn't all. That wily serpent was usually just a harmless, humble creature. But aroused, angered, and prodded, first it warned with violent rattle then it struck with a deadly bite. Gadsden emphasized this by printing the legend "Don't Tread On Me" on his flag.

[seton89]

Interesting article

[TEXOKIE]

PING AND BUMP
From the article:

“Gadsden was a man of principle who understood that government, unless held in check, grows slowly and inexorably. And a government that has no limits, no constitutionally drawn boundaries, soon becomes the master and the citizens become heavily-taxed workers little more than slaves. Without representation — the ability to fight for their interests — the colonies would be subject to the whim and will of politicians ever in search of more revenue and swag to grant the “court locusts” who buzz around institutions of power expecting a handout.”

[Julia H.]

Flag etiquette question: if I am displaying both the Gadsden and the Stars and Stripes on my car, does the American Flag have to be displayed on its own right? Or does that rule not apply to bumper stickers?

[Redleg Duke]

I solved that problem. On my house, as you face it from the street, the Gadsden Flag is on the left and the Sons of Liberty Flag is on the right.

I have ceased flying Old Glory while the "Resident of the United States" is in the "Whore...er White House".

[Gadsden1st]

Works for me. Thanks for the idea!

[Jeff Head]

THE STORM UNLEASHED ON AMERICA

[max americana]

I once saw the coiled snake and Obama’s head was on top of the snake but I cant remember where.

[cayuga]

I have ceased flying Old Glory while the "Resident of the United States" is in the "Whore...er White House".

The Gadsden Flag has flown on my house since January 20. The only exception is Memorial Day, when I fly the Stars and Stripes with 13 stars.

The Commie in the White House needs to see the Gadsden Flag everywhere he goes.

[backhoe]

Here's a hi-res version:

[Mr. Blonde]

[snippy_about_it]

We also switched out and now fly the Gadsden flag. I wish we like minded folk would all do this so we can identify who are friends are.

[tophat9000]

The reason for the rattler..

It gives you fair waring, it wants to be left alone, if you keep on messing with it you do it at your own risk

[Shqipo]

Loved this flag learning about the American Revolution as a kid; love it even more flying it now.

[RegulatorCountry]

The reason for the rattler..

It gives you fair waring, it wants to be left alone, if you keep on messing with it you do it at your own risk

... and it's distinctly American. Benjamin Franklin wanted the humble, indigenous turkey as our nation's symbol for the same reason.

[11Bush]

I have gone my entire life without the desire to ever get a tattoo. Years in the Infantry where everybody else would get leave, get inked, get laid, get arrested (good times).

I guess I never had the proper motivation or image to go for it. Now I do. I am looking for a reputable inker to get the Gadsden flag on my right arm. If I'm going to have something that I will take to the grave, make it something with a message.