Why does the flag have 50 stars?

The flag features 50 stars, with each star representing one of the 50 states in the United States. This design symbolizes the unity of the states within the country, showcasing the federal structure of governance where each state retains its own identity while contributing to the whole nation. The stars are a prominent feature of the flag, reflecting the importance of each state in the overall political system.

The other potential options do not accurately represent the symbolism behind the stars on the flag. For instance, the stars do not symbolize territories; while some territories may be associated with states, they are not represented by the stars. Similarly, the stars do not represent presidents or historical events; rather, the flag serves to collectively celebrate all the states and their role in the union.