The proposed new design for South Carolina’s state flag began circulating online late last month, and the social media reaction lacked any Southern niceties.

There’s more history behind South Carolina’s nickname, The Palmetto State, than you may realize. Here’s what to know.

The origins of this palmetto design are uncertain, though it was being used by a commercial flag manufacturer by the mid 20th century. (South Carolina Government) Historians say their first design ...

South Carolina's state flag has not had an official design for 80 years. So manufacturers have taken some creative liberties with the palmetto tree, crescent and shade of blue. Now ...

The proposed redesign was bound to stir up passions in South Carolina, given the popularity of the palmetto, the official state tree, on clothing, beach towels and other goods, Mr. Malyerck said.