The 13 rays of red and gold on the top section of the flag represent the 13 original colonies of the Union and the rays of the Western setting sun. Red and gold were the colors carried by Coronado's Spanish expedition in search of the Seven Cities of Cibola in 1540. The color of the bottom section of the flag is the same Liberty blue as on the American flag. Since Arizona was the largest producer of copper in the United States, a copper color star was placed in the flag's center.
Seal:
The official state seal was adopted in 1911. Included on the seal is a miner beside an irrigated field with the sun rising in the background. From its original design, the seal has developed over the years to capture the essence of Arizona. My son, John Kyl, has traced this transformation which I discuss in my column “Ditat Deus”: Our Strange and Wonderful Seal.
Arizona’s 5 Cs:
Traditionally recognized as the driving force behind Arizona’s economy, the 5 Cs represent important industries in the state in its early years: cattle, citrus, climate, copper and cotton.
Since attaining statehood on February 14, 1912, Arizona has had 10 senators, five Republicans and five Democrats. One person, Ralph Cameron, served a single term. Carl Hayden, Arizona's longest-serving senator, held the office for 42 years. [Read more about Arizona's Senators]