Why does the U.S. flag have 13 stripes?

The U.S. flag features 13 stripes to represent the original 13 colonies that declared independence from British rule in 1776. These colonies were the foundational entities of what would become the United States. Each stripe is a direct homage to the founding of the nation, illustrating the unity of these colonies in their fight for independence and their subsequent role in the creation of a new nation.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the history represented by the stripes. While the flag does incorporate historical significance, the stripes specifically commemorate the beginning of the United States, rather than symbolizing the current states or marking specific historical events beyond its foundational context. The mention of honoring the founding fathers may reflect admiration for the individuals who contributed to the nation’s establishment, but it does not explain the specific symbolism behind the stripes themselves.