California State Flag

[MUSIC PLAYING] California's state motto is, Eureka, which is Greek for, I found it. The motto dates back to the Gold Rush of 1849. California had gained independence from Mexico the year before, but it was not yet a state. Ironically though, it already had a flag.

What I find to be most unique about the California Flag is how it came into existence. It was actually the product of a rebellion. There were pioneers out there trying to settle the land. There was an attack on a Fort at [? Sonoma ?] and the American settlers were able to take the fort. And a fellow by the name of William Todd got himself a white bed sheet, a couple of cans of paint, and he painted the original bear flag, which is still today the flag of the state of California.

That revolt became known as the bear flag revolt. The bear symbolized strength. The star was a reference to the Lone Star of Texas. The Californians saw Texas as an ally in their struggle with Mexico.

The original flag was destroyed during the San Francisco earthquake of 1906. However, early photos of it still existed. And a slightly modified version became the official state flag in 1911. By the way, William Todd, the pioneer who drew the flag on a bed sheet was the nephew of Mary Todd, Abraham Lincoln's wife. With flag facts, I'm Kristin.