Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:15:02 +0000

The Maine Flag Hides More Than Just History – See the Forgotten Truth When most people think of the Maine flag, they see a striking symbol: a deep blue field with a crow, a pine tree, and the motto “Dirigo” pronounced “Dye-ree-go.” It looks simple, but beneath its bold design lies a hidden truth—one that reflects Maine’s complex, often overlooked history. Long before it became a state, the flag quietly carries the weight of Indigenous heritage, colonial conflict, and the unresolved struggles of Native Americans. This is the forgotten story behind Maine’s iconic flag. ### A Symbol With Deep Roots – Beyond the Surface The Maine flag was formally adopted in 1909, featuring a striking white crow on a deep blue background, above and beside a budding pine tree—symbols that honor Maine’s wild natural beauty and rugged independence. The state motto “Dirigo,” Latin for “I lead,” reflects Maine’s pioneering spirit. But few realize this flag emerged from a chapter of history where Native Americans were marginalized, displaced, and stripped of their voices.