The bright yellow flag emblazoned with a coiled snake and “DON’T TREAD ON ME” has come to be synonymous with the Tea Party. It was introduced 236 years ago, on February 27, 1776, flown aboard the flagship of the newly established Continental Navy. The “Gadsden” flag as it’s come to be known, was presented by Christopher Gadsden of South Carolina, leader of the Sons of Liberty in that state.
 
The rattlesnake was a favorite symbol during the Revolutionary War. For Benjamin Franklin, the image was particularly appropriate to the patriots’ cause. It’s generally accepted that Franklin was “An American Guesser” writing in the “Pennsylvania Journal” ~

The Rattle-Snake is found in no other quarter of the world besides America…
… its eye excelled in brightness that of any other animal, and that she has no eyelids. 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…
She never wounds ’till she has generously given notice, even to her enemy, and cautioned him against the danger of treading on her.

 Today’s patriots are still inspired by the vigilance, courage and resolve that the Gadsden flag represents.