Vermont exists.

In reading “The Good, the ‘Meh’ and the Ugly,” I took note that Hawaii, California and Texas, were mentioned in this article as being three states which were independent nations before joining the Union. For some reason, people believe Texas was the only state to have had this status.

This article correctly cites this is not correct. This article mentions Hawaii. Then, this article mentions California. And that’s it. This — unfairly, mind you — gives the impression these three states were the only three states to be independent countries. This is wrong.

Vermont exists.

(More beyond the jump.)

The Vermont Republic existed from 1777 —1791, becoming the 14th State to ratify the United States Constitution in 1791. Having participated in the American Revolution alongside the 13 colonies, the Flag of the United States should appropriately have 14 stripes rather than 13. That said, it really should have 16 — which would include Maine, Kentucky, and West Virginia, as well.

This is lightheartedly written. Please do not take this as an attack on the author of the other article. I thought it was very well written and made excellent points about flag design.