Flag Tips and Guides — don't tread on me

The First Navy Jack is one of the most recognizable historic American naval flags. Its famous design features thirteen red and white stripes with a coiled rattlesnake across the stripes and the words “DON’T TREAD ON ME.” The Revolutionary War Connection The rattlesnake became an important American symbol during the Revolutionary War. It appeared in political cartoons, newspapers, military imagery, and other patriotic materials as a symbol of American resistance and determination. The thirteen stripes on the First Navy Jack represent the original thirteen colonies. The rattlesnake represents a warning to anyone who threatened American liberty. What Does “Don’t Tread...

“Don’t Tread On Me” is a historic American motto associated with the rattlesnake and the struggle for independence during the American Revolution. The phrase expresses a warning: do not threaten, oppress, or interfere with my freedom. The Meaning Behind The Phrase The words “Don’t Tread On Me” communicate a strong message of independence and resistance. In simple terms, it means, “Do not step on me, or you will face consequences.” The rattlesnake became an important symbol during the Revolutionary era because it was seen as an animal that would not attack without warning, but would defend itself when threatened. The...