The Gadsden Flag

In this episode, viewers will discover how the “Don’t Tread on Me” flag, once a potent symbol of independence, has been co-opted by a variety of Americans over its long history.

Flags are clearly an important part of what it means to be an American. But why is that? Why do we care so much about a piece of cloth?

After The Boston Tea Party, the British decide to blockade Boston Harbor, marking the first signs of real hostilities between the colonies and England. So in 1775, when the Continental Congress decided to form a navy to protect trade, a flag with a coiled snake, prepared to strike, served as the perfect symbol to fly aboard its ships.

"I think the word patriot has been so perverted, particularly since January 6th. A patriot is somebody that's tearing up the capitol? No. For me, patriotism is somebody that believes in the fundamental basics of democracy and the republic, and will defend it and defend the rights of people they disagree with." - Former U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger on how he defines true patriotism.

"For us it was this symbol, moving out into enemy territory: 'Don't tread on me.' But during that tour, it really took on a different meaning."
- Sergeant First Class Joe Morrisey served in Afghanistan as a member of the First Platoon.