❓ why
Why are flags flown at half-mast?
culturehistory
Quick Answer
Lowering a flag is a sign of mourning, often said to leave room for an 'invisible flag of death' above it.
The Full Story
The tradition began at sea in the 17th century, when ships lowered flags to signal mourning. One of the earliest records is from 1612, when the ship Heart's Ease lowered its flag after its captain was killed. On land in the US, the term is 'half-staff', while 'half-mast' is used for ships and in many countries. Flags are usually raised to the top briefly before being lowered.
Key Facts
1.The flag is not literally lowered to halfway — just noticeably below the top.
2.National leaders usually decide when flags fly at half-mast.
3.In some countries, a black ribbon is added instead of lowering the flag.
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"The Meaning of Half-Mast Flags"