Hello, there! I'm Dr. Allison Bellweather, and I specialize in vexillology – that's the study of flags. You've come to the right place with your question about the symbolism of stars on flags. It's a fascinating topic, full of history, culture, and meaning.

Now, you specifically asked about 15 stars on a flag. To give you a comprehensive answer, I need more context. You see, there isn't a single flag with 15 stars that holds universal significance. The meaning behind those stars depends entirely on the specific flag you have in mind.

Let me illustrate with some examples:

* The United States Flag: The US flag has, at different points in its history, featured 15 stars. This occurred between 1795 and 1818 when both Vermont and Kentucky joined the Union. During those years, the 15 stars represented the 15 states that made up the United States. This showcases how a flag's symbolism can evolve along with the nation it represents.
* The Betsy Ross Flag: This iconic flag, believed to be one of the first versions of the American flag, also features 13 stars. However, its design arranges the stars in a circle. Some theories suggest that the circular arrangement symbolized the unity and eternity of the newly formed nation.
* Confederate Battle Flags: The first Confederate Navy Jack, sometimes referred to as the "Stars and Bars," featured seven stars representing the initial seven Confederate states. This flag evolved, and later versions, like the Confederate Second Navy Jack and the Battle Flag of the Army of Tennessee, incorporated more stars as additional states seceded. It's crucial to remember that these flags are heavily associated with the Confederacy and the dark history of slavery in the United States.
* Other National Flags: Some contemporary national flags might incorporate 15 stars, but they wouldn't necessarily share a common symbolism. The stars could represent regions, provinces, islands, or hold another specific meaning within that nation's history or culture.

**To decipher the meaning behind 15 stars on a flag, I need you to tell me:**

* What flag are you referring to? Do you have a picture or a more detailed description?
* Where did you encounter this flag? Knowing the context can provide valuable clues.

Once I have this information, I can delve into the specifics and offer you a more accurate and insightful explanation.

Remember, flags are powerful symbols. Understanding their meaning helps us better understand history, culture, and the world around us.
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Description of the flag. In 1795, two stars were added, representing Kentucky and Vermont, bringing the total number of stars to 15. ... The 15 star flag flew over Fort McHenry during the War of 1812 and inspired the writing of the National Anthem, The Star Spangled Banner.read more >>