Confederate Battle Flag - Historical Design and Symbolism #1820126 (License: Personal Use)

This image displays the Confederate battle flag, officially known as the Battle Flag of the Army of Northern Virginia, adopted in 1861. Its design consists of a red field with a white-bordered blue saltire (X-shaped cross) containing 13 white five-pointed stars representing the seceded states. Though never the official national flag of the Confederacy, it became the most recognizable symbol associated with the Southern cause.

Used in historical articles, museum exhibits, educational resources, and discussions about U.S. Civil War symbolism; matches user intent for research, academic study, or understanding controversial iconography.