What do the 13 stripes on the American flag represent?

The 13 stripes on the American flag represent the 13 original states that declared independence from Great Britain in 1776. These states are Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, and Virginia. The stripes alternate between red and white, symbolizing valor and purity, respectively. This design not only honors the colonial history of the United States but also signifies the unity of these states in the formation of a new nation.

While the other options mention historical figures and territories, they do not accurately reflect the symbolism of the flag's stripes. The number of presidents and territories is unrelated to the flag's design. Additionally, referencing the founding fathers does not capture the collective identity of the states which were the foundation of the nation. Thus, the choice that highlights the original states aligns directly with the flag’s representation and history.