The U.S., France, Chile and more all have this commonality: red, white and blue flags. Here's why, as explained by Ted Kaye of the North American Vexillological Association.

Flags often imitate or are influenced by other nations, creating “flag families.” For example, the Netherlands’ red, white and blue flag from the 1500s set a precedent.

That flag is the creation of Doug Gaines, a Chapin resident and retired law enforcement officer. Having lived in the Lake ...