Confederate Battle Flag - Historical Design and Symbolism #1808414 (License: Personal Use)

This flag, officially known as the Battle Flag of the Army of Northern Virginia, was designed in 1861 to avoid confusion with the U.S. flag on the battlefield; it displays a blue diagonal cross (saltire) bearing 13 white stars representing the Confederate states. Though never the national flag of the Confederacy, it became the most recognizable symbol associated with the Southern cause during the American Civil War. Its legacy remains deeply contested in American society due to its historical ties to slavery, segregation, and white supremacy.

Used in historical articles, museum exhibits, educational resources, and discussions about U.S. Civil War iconography; often appears in contexts addressing heritage, symbolism, or racial justice debates.