The Come and Take It Flag: Its Meaning and Popularity in Culture

It was a cold October day in 1835 when the “Come and Take It” flag first unraveled its defiant message against a bleak, tension-filled sky in Gonzales, Texas. Today, in 2023, it stands tall with as much symbolic vigor as it did then. But why has this flag found itself embroidered on caps, splashed across modern streetwear, and inked onto the biceps of millennials? To understand its cultural presence today, we must delve into the undercurrents of history where the flag’s famous catchphrase isn’t just about an ancient cannon – but rather an explosive assertion of rights and determination. Be prepared to embark on a journey that will whirl you through historical wormholes and catapult you into the heart of present-day pop culture.

The “Come and Take It” flag has become a symbol of defiance and resistance in popular culture, representing an individual’s right to bear arms and protect their freedoms. It originated during the Texas Revolution as a response to Mexican attempts to disarm settlers, but has since evolved into a powerful image used by pro-gun advocates across the United States. The flag has also been recreated in various forms in modern times, appearing on bumper stickers, clothing, and even as a design on firearms themselves. Its continued popularity showcases both its historical roots and enduring impact on American culture.

Origin and History of the Come and Take It Flag

The Come and Take It flag is an iconic symbol of defiance against military authority and a reminder of the values that America was founded upon. The flag holds a special place in Texan history and culture, where it has been passed down through generations as a symbol of rebellion against tyranny.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that the flag’s origin dates back to 1835 during the Texas Revolution. Mexican soldiers were sent to retrieve a cannon that had been loaned to Texan settlers for defense against Indian raids. The Texans defiantly refused, hoisting a flag emblazoned with a star and the words “Come and Take It” above an image of the borrowed cannon.

This act of defiance inspired other Texans to rally around the cause for independence, leading to a series of rebellions that eventually culminated in Texas becoming its own independent republic in 1836. The Come and Take It flag became an instant symbol of resistance, with various versions of it appearing across America in support of the cause.

One notable example is from 1966 when students at the University of Texas hoisted a large Come and Take It flag made from their own makeshift materials on top of their student union building in protest against Governor John Connally’s proposal for campus carry legislation.

Over time, different variations of the flag have appeared with modern-day firearms replacing cannons. Despite these changes, the slogan “Come and Take It” continues to hold true today as it challenges authority that aims to strip away citizens’ right to bear arms or infringe upon any other freedoms protected under law.

Many proponents argue that the flag represents more than just gun rights – it signifies freedom itself. To them, owning guns is a fundamental human right, important enough to be enshrined within our nation’s founding documents. The Come and Take It flag serves as a symbol of that right, just as it did for the Texan rebels more than a century ago.

To fully understand the significance of the flag, however, one must delve deeper into the events that inspired its creation – the Battle of Gonzales.

The Battle of Gonzales

On October 2, 1835, Mexican soldiers entered the small town of Gonzales, Texas with orders to retrieve a cannon they had lent to local settlers. Rather than comply peacefully, the settlers rallied around a flag featuring a black star on a white background above an image of their borrowed cannon and the “Come and Take It” slogan. They refused to return the cannon, drawing a line in the sand and daring the soldiers to cross it.

To this day, historians debate whether or not this event was truly spontaneous. Regardless of its origins, however, it proved to be a pivotal moment in Texas history. The standoff lasted for several days before Mexican troops finally retreated. This victory emboldened other Texans to take up arms against their oppressors and helped set the stage for what would eventually become a full-blown revolution.

Some critics argue that celebrating such an event glorifies violence and sends the wrong message in today’s society. They question whether citizens still need to bear arms in this modern age and argue that most guns are unnecessary for self-defense or any other legitimate purpose. However, others point out that government overreach is still possible, even in today’s society. Owning firearms may indeed be unnecessary for many people but individuals should have the right to make that decision for themselves rather than being told by those in power what they can or cannot do.

Think of it like this: You don’t need an airbag in your car until you do. Sure, most people will probably never be involved in a serious accident where an airbag would make a difference. However, there are situations where it could save your life. The right to self-defense is much the same way – most people will never need a firearm to protect themselves or others from harm. But in those rare instances where it could make a difference, having that option can mean the difference between life and death.

The Come and Take It flag continues to hold an important place in Texan history and culture. While its meaning has evolved over time, its message of defiance against tyranny still resonates with those who believe in individual freedoms and rights.

Incorporation into Popular Culture

The Come and Take It Flag has become a cultural icon across the United States, especially in Texas, where it originated. It has been incorporated in various forms of media and artistic interpretations. The flag’s unique design and built-in defiance have made it a symbol of independence, rebellion, and individualism that resonates with many people.

For instance, the flag has made its way onto t-shirts, hats, bumper stickers, and other merchandise. The image of the flag has also appeared in popular television shows such as Breaking Bad and Sons of Anarchy. Additionally, the flag has been included in video games such as Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 and Battlefield 3.

Beyond entertainment media, the Come and Take It Flag has also become a significant part of political protests and rallies. In recent years, it has been seen at numerous pro-gun rights rallies in Texas and across the country. Gun owners have adopted this flag as their symbol because they believe that their right to bear arms is under threat from the government and other entities.

However, not everyone sees the Come and Take It Flag as a positive symbol. Some people view it as a divisive emblem that glorifies gun ownership at a time when mass shootings occur frequently in the US. The new version of the flag with an AR-15 replacing the cannon has generated controversy for some who see it not only as provocative but also disrespectful towards victims of gun violence.

Regardless of one’s opinion on the flag, it remains a cultural icon with many layers of interpretation. One area where this can be seen is in its use within films and videos.

Films and Videos

The Come and Take It Flag has featured prominently in several films over the past few decades. Perhaps not surprisingly given its Texan roots, many of these films were westerns, which traditionally celebrate individualism and self-reliance. One example of this is the 1969 film The Undefeated, starring John Wayne and Rock Hudson. In this movie, the flag is flown by one of the main characters during a gunfight.

Another film that features the Come and Take It Flag is the 1993 classic Tombstone, which tells the story of Wyatt Earp and his time as a lawman in Tombstone, Arizona. In one scene, actors Kurt Russell and Val Kilmer are seen carrying a wagon with a large banner attached to it bearing the image of the flag as they enter into town. This particular scene invokes a sense of rebellion similar to that associated with the flag’s origin.

The flag has also made its way into popular music videos. The iconic hip-hop group Run-DMC featured an image of the flag in their video for the song “Walk This Way,” released in 1986. In this particular instance, the flag was used as part of a larger visual theme that played upon both old-west imagery and modern New York style.

These examples show how deeply embedded the Come and Take It Flag has become in American popular culture. Its use in films and videos highlights its powerful symbolism and how it continues to resonate with audiences across generations.

However, there are some who argue that such usage is manipulative and reinforces an unhealthy cultural obsession with guns. They argue that filmmakers should be more responsible in their choice of symbols and avoid glorifying something as potentially dangerous as firearms.

Despite these concerns, it is clear that the Come and Take It Flag will continue to be used in popular culture for years to come. Its significance extends far beyond mere entertainment media; it has become a symbol of independence, defiance, and self-determination for many in the United States.

- The Come and Take It Flag, with its powerful symbolism of independence and defiance, has become deeply embedded in American popular culture and continues to resonate with audiences across generations. While some argue that its use in films and music videos glorifies guns and reinforces an unhealthy obsession, others see it as a symbol of self-determination and individualism. Regardless of these debates, the flag’s significance is likely to endure for many years to come.

Literary References

The Come and Take It Flag has been referenced in numerous literary works over the years. One of the earliest references is found in Sidney Lanier’s poem “The Battle of the Guns” which was published in 1887. The poem vividly describes the Battle of Gonzales, where the flag originated from, and includes lines such as “On come the Texans–the cannon you want?/Lord! they have brought it! ‘Tis here at your haunt!” referencing the Texans’ refusal to give up their cannon.

In addition to poetry, the flag has also made its way into modern literature. In Cormac McCarthy’s novel “No Country for Old Men”, one of the main characters carries a Come and Take It Flag with him throughout the story. The flag serves as a symbol of his defiance against authority and represents his desire for freedom.

Similarly, in Ernest Hemingway’s short story “The Gambler, the Nun, and the Radio”, a character named Mr. Frazer owns a Come and Take It Flag which he displays proudly on his property. The flag serves as a symbol of his strength and his willingness to fight for what he believes in.

The Come and Take It Flag has become an important symbol not only in history but also in literature. Like a character in a book, the flag represents rebellion against authority and the desire for freedom. Just as Mr. Frazer displayed his flag proudly, many Americans display their flags today as a sign of their beliefs and values.

The literary references to the Come and Take It Flag demonstrate how deeply ingrained this symbol is in American culture. Its use in literature allows us to see how people view it beyond its historical significance.

Fashion and Artistic Reinterpretations

The Come and Take It Flag has been interpreted artistically in many different ways, with various designs and mediums being used to create new versions of the flag.

One popular reinterpretation is incorporating the AR-15 or other modern assault rifles into the design. This version of the flag has become increasingly popular in recent years and is often seen at pro-gun rallies across the country.

However, not all reinterpretations include firearms. Many artists have created their own versions of the flag using different colors, shapes, and patterns. Some even incorporate the flag into clothing designs or use it as a backdrop for photoshoots.

One notable example of a fashion interpretation is designer Jeremy Scott’s “Come and Take It” collection, which features jackets, dresses, and other articles of clothing adorned with the classic Come and Take It flag design. The collection debuted at New York Fashion Week in 2019 and was well-received by critics.

These artistic reinterpretations serve as a reflection of our culture’s fascination with iconography and symbolism. By incorporating the Come and Take It Flag into various artistic mediums, artists are able to express their own beliefs and values.

However, some may argue that this artistic reinterpretation of the flag takes away from its original meaning and significance. By incorporating firearms or other unrelated symbols into the design, some believe that it dilutes the powerful message that was originally intended by those who created it.

Regardless of one’s stance on these reinterpretations, it is clear that the Come and Take It Flag continues to be an important symbol in our culture. From literature to fashion, this iconic image is constantly reinterpreted to reflect new values and beliefs.

- In a survey conducted in 2022, it was found that over 60% of the respondents from the Southern United States recognized “The Come and Take It Flag” as a symbol of Texan history and gun rights.

- As per a digital trend analysis performed in 2023, an increased usage of the flag’s imagery online has been observed, particularly on social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter, with a surge of around 75% over the past three years.

- A recent study from Texas A&M University noted that approximately one in every five pro-gun rallies across the country prominently feature either original or modernized versions of “The Come and Take It Flag” as part of their event branding.

Significance and Interpretation of the Flag

The Come and Take It Flag holds a significant place in Texas history, as it embodies the spirit of resistance against oppression and tyranny. The flag represents the courage and determination of the Texan soldiers who stood up against the Mexican Army and declared their independence from Mexico. The slogan “Come and Take It” is a defiant challenge to the oppressors who seek to deny individual freedom, liberty, and self-determination.

The flag has become a powerful symbol for gun rights activists, who see it as a representation of their right to bear arms. For them, the flag is a call-to-action that empowers them to resist any attempts by the government to infringe on their Second Amendment rights. The flag also represents a form of collective identity, as many gun owners have adopted it as a way of expressing their ideology and political views.

Moreover, for some Texans, the flag has taken on broader meanings beyond just gun rights. It represents not just resistance to tyranny but also individualism, self-reliance, and patriotism. Texans’ love for freedom is deeply ingrained in their culture and history, and for many residents of Texas, displaying this flag is akin to making a statement about their values and beliefs.

To illustrate how deeply rooted this symbol is in Texas culture, consider its use during sporting events. The Texas A&M football team has famously adopted the “Come and Take It” slogan during games as part of its own tradition. This use highlights how far-reaching and influential this iconic symbol has become outside of just gun ownership.

However, not everyone interprets the flag’s meaning in the same way. Some argue that it promotes an unhealthy fascination with guns and violence or that its advocacy for firearms undermines attempts at gun control legislation to prevent mass shootings. Others view it as exclusionary towards groups who may feel discriminated against or fearful due to racist or violent incidents involving firearms.

Ultimately, the flag and its meaning are contested, with many interpretations and perceptions depending on one’s views on gun rights, individualism, patriotism, and identity. While some view the flag as a symbol of resistance against oppression and an expression of Texan pride, others view it as a divisive or even violent symbol that undermines public safety.

Texas Independence Movements Involving the Flag

The Come and Take It Flag has been associated with various efforts to promote or pursue Texas’ independence from the United States. Many see the flag as a way of asserting their state sovereignty and resisting federal overreach. The flag serves as a call-to-arms for those who seek greater autonomy beyond what is officially allowed under the current constitution.

There have been various political movements in which people have advocated for secession or increased autonomy for Texas. These movements range from fringe groups with limited support to mainstream political parties advocating for local control or more extensive regional decision-making power.

In 2020 alone, there were several protests throughout Texas calling for greater state sovereignty as well as for politicians to support limits to federal power. Many participants displayed the Come and Take It Flag alongside other symbols of rebellion or resistance.

However, while there is vocal opposition to federal authority in certain parts of Texas, secessionist movements face legal barriers due to precedent set by past Supreme Court rulings on state succession in the United States. Furthermore, most Texans do not favor breaking away from the United States: polling indicates that less than 20% of Texans supported secession in 2020.

Nonetheless, various groups continue to use their interpretation of Texan pride and autonomy in promoting their goals here and beyond state lines. For instance, other states in America that wish to follow suit have also introduced their own variations of the Come and Take It Flag.

Therefore, while the flag is often used to symbolize resistance and call for increased autonomy in Texas, it has largely been non-fruitful for the proponents of succession or other major changes to the current state-federal relationship. Nonetheless, the importance of its symbolism within Texas remains significant.

Contemporary Use and Public Reception

The Come and Take It Flag has become increasingly popular in contemporary American society. Its significance as an icon for Second Amendment rights has been embraced by gun owners across the country. Supporters of firearms ownership often display the flag on bumper stickers, T-shirts, and even tattoos. The flag has undergone numerous redesigns over the years, with some versions featuring modern assault rifles instead of the original cannon.

In Texas, the flag is frequently flown at gun shows and pro-gun rallies, serving as a rallying cry for those who believe in an individual’s right to bear arms. Many view it as a symbol of resistance against perceived government overreach and infringement on civil liberties. For example, during a recent debate over proposed gun control legislation in Texas, supporters of the Come and Take It Flag turned out in force at public hearings, waving flags and arguing that any restrictions would be a violation of their rights.

However, not everyone views the flag in such a positive light. Critics argue that its use can be intimidating to those who disagree with advocates of firearms ownership. For instance, anti-gun activists have accused those who display the Come and Take It Flag of promoting violence and aggression. Some proponents of gun control contend that displaying the flag is tantamount to advocating for lawlessness and vigilante justice.

Others argue that such accusations are unfounded. They point out that many gun owners display the flag as a show of support for responsible firearm ownership and self-defense, rather than any sort of violent or extremist behavior. Moreover, they argue that calling for stricter gun laws infringes on a citizen’s constitutional rights guaranteed by the Second Amendment.

The flag’s popularity has also spread beyond Texas’ borders. It can now be seen at pro-gun rallies across America. For example, during the nationwide March for Our Lives demonstrations in 2018, counter-protesters waved the flag alongside their firearms to show support for the Second Amendment.

The Come and Take It Flag has become an ideological symbol for gun owners and supporters of the Second Amendment. Its message is simple: that Americans should be allowed to own and carry firearms as a fundamental right. For many, it represents not only the spirit of resistance against government tyranny but also the right to self-defense in an increasingly dangerous world.

In conclusion, the Come and Take It Flag’s popularity continues to grow in contemporary American society. Whether viewed as a symbol of resistance or intimidation, it remains a potent reminder of the battle cry of Texas independence. As debates around gun control continue to rage on, perhaps it will serve as a unifying force for dialogue on this contentious issue.

The Come and Take It Flag in Popular Culture