Because Virginia VA was the first part of the country to be settled by English colonists, the state flag proudly represents Virginia's love of freedom.  The seal in the center of the flag pictures two figures acting out the state motto, which is written in Latin on the seal, Sic Semper Tyrannis, meaning "This is what always happens to tyrants."  The goddess Virtue, the symbol of the commonwealth, has defeated the man, who holds a whip and chain, showing that he is a tyrant.  Virginia State Flag Adopted:  1861