Virginia was named to honor Queen Elizabeth of England who was commonly referred to as the "Virgin Queen".

The state flag was adopted in 1776 and shows the state seal of Virginia against a deep blue background with the Latin motto " Sic Semper Tyrannis" - "Thus Always to Tyrants". The two warriors depicted on the seal are acting out the meaning of the motto. One is the figure of a woman, representing virtue and subsequently the state. The other is a man holding a scourge and chain which symbolizes tyranny. His fallen crown is near his body symbolizes the fall of English authority in this country.