State Flags
In vexillology, the term state flag has two primary definitions depending on context. In most nations, it refers to the government flag of a sovereign state, which is often a more complex version of the national flag (featuring a coat of arms) and is restricted for use by government agencies, distinct from the civil flag used by the general public.
In federalized countries like the United States, it specifically refers to the official flag of an individual federated state or territorial subdivision. These flags serve to represent the unique identity, history, and symbols of that specific region within the nation.