Why does the flag have 13 stripes?

The flag has 13 stripes to represent the 13 original colonies that declared independence from Great Britain and became the first states of the United States. These colonies were crucial in the founding of the nation, and their struggle for independence laid the groundwork for the country’s formation. The stripes alternate between red and white, symbolizing valor and purity, respectively. This design serves as a reminder of the nation's history and the collective efforts of the early colonists in their pursuit of freedom and self-governance.

The other options, while they touch on important aspects of American history and governance, do not accurately relate to the specific reason for the stripes on the flag. The branches of government are not represented by the stripes, nor do the stripes honor the Founding Fathers or represent the original states, as there are more states today than there were original colonies.