What are some of the earliest recorded instances of the American flag being used?

 The earliest recorded instances of the American flag being used date back to the late 18th century. The flag of the United States has a long and complex history, and it has undergone many changes since it was first adopted. Here are a few of the earliest recorded instances of the American flag being used:

The "Betsy Ross Flag": One of the earliest recorded instances of the American flag being used is the so-called "Betsy Ross flag," which is said to have been sewn by Betsy Ross in 1776. This flag features 13 white five-pointed stars arranged in a circle on a blue field, with 13 red and white stripes representing the 13 colonies. Although the story of Betsy Ross and the flag is widely known and has become an important part of American folklore, there is little historical evidence to support it.

The "Grand Union Flag": Another early flag that is often considered the first official American flag is the "Grand Union Flag," which was used in 1775 and 1776. This flag features 13 red and white stripes and a blue field with the Union Jack in the canton (upper left corner). It was used by the Continental Army during the early years of the American Revolution and is considered a precursor to the modern American flag.

The "Stars and Stripes": The modern American flag, known as the "Stars and Stripes," was officially adopted by the Continental Congress on June 14, 1777. This flag features 13 red and white stripes and a blue field with 50 white five-pointed stars, representing the 50 states. It has undergone several changes over the years, with the number of stars being adjusted to reflect the addition of new states to the Union.