In this video on Roots Television, American Spirit freelance writer Maureen Taylor pays tribute to the American flag — just in time for the Fourth of July.

Maureen, also known as the “Photo Detective,” has assembled a historic look at flags in photographs. In addition to late 19th century photos of children posed with flags and draped in bunting, you’ll marvel at her images of “living flags,” created when hundreds, even thousands, of people would come together to create living expressions of patriotism. Popular at the beginning of the 20th century, these human displays of patriotic symbols were revived after 9/11.

Have a safe and happy Independence Day!