The American flag was likely designed by Francis Hopkinson, a founding father and New Jersey congressman, rather than Betsy Ross, who is popularly credited with sewing the first flag. Hopkinson, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and a talented artist and statesman, designed the flag around 1777 while serving on the Continental Navy Board. He even requested payment from Congress for his design work. The story of Betsy Ross making the flag originated later through her descendants but lacks solid historical evidence. She was, however, a skilled seamstress known for making flags and other items during the American Revolution.
