How many stripes are on the American flag and how are they arranged?

The American flag features 13 stripes that alternate between red and white. These stripes represent the original 13 colonies that declared independence from Great Britain. The arrangement begins with a red stripe at the top, followed by a white stripe, and this pattern continues down the flag. This historical significance and the distinct color pattern are key aspects of the flag's design, symbolizing the foundation upon which the United States was built. Thus, the correct answer conveys both the number of stripes and their arrangement in a manner that reflects the flag's heritage.