What do the stars on the American flag represent?

The stars on the American flag represent the 50 states of the United States. Each star signifies one state, reflecting the country's federal structure where each state is represented as part of the greater union. This symbolism underscores the nation's unity and diversity, as each state brings its unique identity, culture, and history while collectively forming the United States. The flag itself serves as an emblem of national pride and unity, showcasing the significance of each state's role within the federation.

In contrast, the 13 colonies are represented by the stripes of the flag, which symbolize the original colonies that declared independence from British rule. Constellations do not hold any official meaning related to the flag, and while the idea of unity among states is essential, it is specifically the stars that denote the individual states themselves.