New York was named by the British to honor the brother of King Charles II who was the Duke of York and Albany. New York is among the original thirteen colonies in the "new world".

The flag consists of a the states' coat of arms centered on a dark blue field. The goddess of Liberty. At her feet is the crown of England. On the opposite side is the goddess of Justice. As is custom, the goddess of justice is blindfolded and carries the scales of justice which represents equal protection under the law. The state motto "Excelsior" is on a white ribbon beneath the two figures. Excelsior is found on many national images as it demonstrates the aim to achieve excellence and greater goals.