Why does the US flag have 50 stars?

The reason the US flag has 50 stars is directly tied to the number of states in the Union. Each star on the flag represents one state, making a total of 50 stars to signify the 50 states that make up the United States. This symbolism reflects the nation’s unity and acknowledges each state's equal status within the federal system.

The other options suggest alternative historical or symbolic reasons for the number of stars that do not align with the actual design of the flag and its evolution. For instance, the reference to 50 years of independence does not accurately connect to the number of stars, as the stars represent the states rather than a duration of time. Similarly, the idea of representing the original colonists or battles fought misinterprets the purpose of the stars on the flag, which is specifically focused on the states themselves.