The California Bear Flag was raised
at Sonoma on June 14, 1846 by a group of American
settlers in revolt against Mexican rule. The flag
was designed by William Todd on a piece of new unbleached
cotton. The star imitated the lone star of Texas.
A grizzly bear represented the many bears seen in
the state. The word, "California Republic"
was placed beneath the star and bear. It was adopted
by the 1911 State Legislature as the State Flag. [Source:
California Blue Book.]
CALIFORNIA CONSTITUTION PREAMBLE
We, the People of the State of California,
grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, in order
to secure and perpetuate its blessings, do establish
this Constitution.
Saratoga
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