While contemporary usage does make allowances for the use of that flag as a symbol of discontent, its original meaning was one of American unity and solidarity. Indeed, no less a formidable figure than founding father Benjamin Franklin saw the rattlesnake as a fitting emblem for the country. In one of his famous essays he wrote of the snake:
"I recollected that her eye excelled in brightness, that of any other animal, and that she has no eye-lids�She may therefore be esteemed an emblem of vigilance.�She never begins an attack, nor, when once engaged, ever surrenders: She is therefore an emblem of magnanimity and true courage.�As if anxious to prevent all pretensions of quarreling with her, the weapons with which nature has furnished her, she conceals in the roof of her mouth, so that, to those who are unacquainted with her, she appears to be a most defenseless animal; and even when those weapons are shewn and extended for her defense, they appear weak and contemptible; but their wounds however small, are decisive and fatal:�Conscious of this, she never wounds till she has generously given notice, even to her enemy, and cautioned him against the danger of stepping on her.�Was I wrong, Sir, in thinking this a strong picture of the temper and conduct of America?"
Look closely at the Gadsden snake -- coiled and ready to strike, her tail brandishes no less than 13 rattles. A UNITED country, not a divided one.
Click 'read more' if you'd like to see the original Naval ensign that inspired the Gadsden flag
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Check out rattlesnake roundup in Texas to see what they do to these cdreatures.
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