Six Flags Have Flown Over Alabama

Alabama's history is uniquely marked by **six sovereign flags** — more than any other U.S. state except Texas (also six).

1. France (1699–1763): Fort Louis de la Mobile (1702), Fort Toulouse (1717). Louisiana colony.
2. Spain (1780–1813): Captured Mobile (1780) during American Revolution; held West Florida until 1813.
3. Great Britain (1763–1780): Gained by Treaty of Paris (1763); lost West Florida to Spain (1780).
4. Republic of West Florida (1810): 74-day republic (St. Francisville, LA area) — included parts of modern AL (Mobile District). Short-lived; annexed by US.
5. Confederate States of America (1861–1865): Alabama seceded Jan 11, 1861; 4th state to join CSA. Montgomery = 1st capital.
6. United States (1798–present): Mississippi Territory (1798) → Alabama Territory (1817) → Statehood (Dec 14, 1819, 22nd state). Interrupted 1861–65.

Note on "Seven Flags"

Some sources add the **French Republic (1790s)** or **Alabama Secession Convention flag**, but the **six above** are the universally recognized sovereign powers.

This history is celebrated at **Six Flags Over Alabama** (former theme park, now Alabama Adventure) and the **Alabama State Capitol** (flags displayed).