The Gadsden Flag

A brief history of the Gadsden Flag and why it's such an important symbol today.


The Gadsden Flag

The Gadsden Flag portrays a rattlesnake coiled above the words "Don't Tread On Me!" This was not accidental, for the rattlesnake had been used as a symbol of the American spirit, apart from that of England, as early as 1754 during the French and Indian war.

In 1775, when the Gadsden Flag was presented by Statesman Christopher Gadsden to the navy, the symbol of the rattlesnake had been well defined by Benjamin Franklin earlier that year. In Franklin's words, the rattlesnake is ever vigilant, yet slow to strike, giving ample warning to the intruder, but when she does strike, it is direct and fatal.

Benjamin Franklin was apt in his judgment of the American People, and that character has remained unchanged. The Tea Party Members have given the government ample warning, exercising the right of Freedom of Speech and are prepared to use their vote. Though these weapons seem small and insufficient to defend our liberty, they are far more potent and fatal to tyranny than any other.

The Gadsden Flag now stands for the people's rights and liberties, and for the vigilance with which we must watch the government to insure that we retain those rights and liberties.