Why does the U.S. flag have 13 stripes?

The U.S. flag features 13 stripes to represent the 13 original colonies that declared independence from Great Britain in 1776. These colonies—Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, South Carolina, New Hampshire, Virginia, New York, North Carolina, and Rhode Island—were the foundation of what would become the United States. The stripes are colored red and white, symbolizing valor and purity, respectively, and they serve as a reminder of the nation's origins and the struggles for independence that defined these colonies.

The other choices, while significant in their own ways, do not accurately describe the symbolism of the stripes. For instance, the flag does not have 13 amendments nor does it honor the founding fathers specifically. Additionally, while the number of stripes and stars on the flag relates directly to the original colonies and the current number of states, the stripes themselves specifically commemorate those initial colonies and their role in establishing the nation. Thus, the correct answer showcases the historical context and meaning behind the design of the flag.