The "Join or Die" flag, originally a political cartoon created by Benjamin Franklin, first appeared in his Pennsylvania Gazette on May 9, 1754, during the lead-up to the French and Indian War. The image depicted a segmented snake, with each segment labeled to represent the American colonies, accompanied by the bold caption "JOIN, or DIE," urging unity among the colonies to strengthen their defense against external threats. The snake, a symbol of vigilance and resilience in early American iconography, was intentionally shown as severed to emphasize that division would lead to vulnerability and defeat. Though not a flag in its initial form, the design was later adapted during the American Revolution, notably as a naval ensign flown by figures like John Paul Jones, evolving into a rallying cry for colonial solidarity against British rule. Today, it endures as an emblem of American unity and defiance, often invoked in historical and patriotic contexts.
Get to know your new favorite tee—it's super smooth, super comfortable, and made from a cotton touch polyester jersey that won't fade after washing.
• 95% polyester, 5% elastane (fabric composition may vary by 1%)
• Premium knit mid-weight jersey
• Four-way stretch fabric that stretches and recovers on the cross and lengthwise grains
• Regular fit
This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!