In recent years, there has been a resurgence in interest for the Gadsden Flag, which was designed during the American Revolution by Christopher Gadsden. It featured a yellow field with a coiled rattlesnake ready to strike and the words, “Don’t tread on me.” The flag was used as a popular symbol of patriotism in opposition to British rule and has since become an icon for freedom and individual liberty. Today, however, the symbol is largely associated with racial hatred and white supremacy due to its modern usage by far-right individuals and groups. Resource: https://ultimateflags.com/blog/history-of-the-gadsden-flag/
Origins and Symbolism: History of the Gadsden Flag
Due to this polarization, it is important to understand how symbols such as the Gadsden Flag can mean different things to different people. For example, if someone owns and displays the Confederate battle flag, it may symbolize heritage and Southern pride to some people, but to others, it represents slavery and oppression. This is because the meaning of a symbol can change over time based on its context and how it’s used.
