Just before America’s entry into World War II in 1941, the New York Philharmonic found itself in a dispute over the placing of two American flags on its stage and the playing of the National Anthem before every concert. It was up to Arthur Judson, manager of the orchestra, to answer pro and con letters…. continue
A flag and a famous bridge were recently linked when two German artists/activists climbed the Brooklyn Bridge to fling two white-washed American flags to the breeze. They later claimed that they were honoring “the beauty of public space” and saluting the German-born architect who designed the span. In 1937, another famous bridge, on the verge… continue
Sometimes, history repeats itself in perfect intervals. For example, 2014 continues the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, marks the centenary of the First World War and begins the observance of the 75th anniversary of World War II, which broke out in 1939. Over that span, American flags were draped over the coffins of tens… continue
Most Americans know that Francis Scott Key wrote the lyrics of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Many would be able to cite Irving Berlin as the composer of “God Bless America.” But few citizens can identify the author of “The Pledge of Allegiance,” which will be recited often on Flag Day, June 14, and on the Fourth… continue
Seventy years ago, perhaps the most significant invasion in world history took place – and flags went along. The event was D-Day, June 6, 1944, when Allied forces hit beaches on the coast of France with the intention of not stopping their progress until they ended Nazi Germany’s reign over Europe. Newspapers of June 6… continue