Old Glory - by Roland Miller (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Profiles of 50 historically significant American flags that chronicle the history of the country, timed to celebrate our nation's 250th anniversary

Few symbols hold the gravity and inspiration of the American flag. It has encouraged heroics in trying times, soothed the nation after tremendous trauma, brightened the eyes of citizens, and offers comfort and hope. And of course it's our national symbol of democracy and freedom. Now, to be published on time for America's Semiquincentennial on July 4, 2026, Old Glory is a compelling look at the evolution of the flag through 50 significant versions of the country's ensign, commemorating the past two and a half centuries--from 1765 to 2026--of American history.

Included are stories and images of flags that predate America's independence, such as Washington's Headquarters flag, which gave us the basic elements of the current design. And the Betsy Ross Flag, the country's first, and one of the most regarded and recognized flags; also here is The Lincoln flag that nobly cradled President Lincoln's head in his final hours. And the Apollo 11 flag that was planted in the surface of the moon. The flag appears in countless iconic pop culture moments as well, some of which are featured in the book, such as on Wonder Woman's original costume, and the flag's motif in the film Easy Rider. Old Glory is a must-have gift for American history enthusiasts and photography book collectors.

About the Author

Roland Miller, a Chicago native, worked in higher education for 30 years, first as a photography professor and later as dean. Miller's book Abandoned in Place: Preserving America's Space History documents deactivated space launch and test facilities around the United States. Miller's collaborative project and book with Italian astronaut Paolo Nespoli, Interior Space: A Visual Exploration of the International Space Station, documents the interior of the International Space Station. Miller's photographs are in numerous permanent collections, including those of the Museum of Contemporary Photography in Chicago and the NASA Art Collection in Washington, DC. Miller's photographs have been exhibited in major art and science museums, including the Galleria del Cembalo in Rome, Italy. His work has been featured in major publications, including the New York Times and National Geographic UK.