State Flag
Virginia's official state flag was adopted in 1861. The flag has a deep blue background with a white circle in the center. In the center are the words "VIRGINIA," and "SIC SEMPER TYRANNIS" (Latin for "thus always to tyrants"). Depicting the state's motto on the flag is the goddess Virtue (who is holding a sword and a spear), who has defeated a tyrant, who is lying on the ground, and is holding a chain and a scourge (a whip). Nearby is the tyrant's fallen crown. Virtue symbolizes Virginia and the tyrant symbolizes Britain. Red Virginia creepers and green leaves surround the scene. A white silk fringe is on the edge farthest from the flagstaff.