This flag was flown over the Fortifications on Sullivan’s
Island, South Carolina, as they battled a British Invasion. When
the flag fell during the course of the battle, it was lifted
by Sergeant William Jasper, who held it until a new flagstaff
could be improvised, claiming, “We cannot fight without
a flag.” But they fought valiantly with the flag,
fending off the British fleet and felling their commander,
Sir Peter Parker. This decisive battle was the first
British loss at sea in years, and prevented them from the
capacity for a Southern invasion for a long while afterward. It
was enhanced with the bold word “Liberty” to
reflect the dreams of the Colonists. |