Broad Stripes, Bright Stars is a look book of our most cherished American icons --the Flag, the Eagle, Uncle Sam, and Lady Liberty--through hundreds of patriotic objects created during the past two and a half centuries, and how these permeated the lives of Americans. The chapters are based on Kit Hinrich's collection of over 7,500 flags and flag memorabilia, assembled over the past 50 years. The book looks historically at the flag from several points of view: Celebration, Conflict, Politics, Business and Memorabilia, which collectively weave a rich visual tapestry that defines the American Spirit during its first 250 years. The collection includes Native American crafts such as handmade quilts and Navajo weavings, children's and adult's toys and games, retail marketing, folk & fine art, postal imagery including Civil War envelopes, political/propaganda posters, personal adornment, sports, and much more. Many handcrafted and one-of-a-kind objects will be published for the first time. The text not only illuminates the objects themselves but is filled with little-known historical facts and myths. The book includes a guide to the 27 official flags and the dates the states joined the union, plus the presidents that served under them.