The Average Color of US State Flags

Are you familiar with Terrible Maps? Most of the maps are indeed terrible (and thus hilarious) but some of the maps are not terrible at all (and thus very interesting). This is a recent map from the latter category:

As you can see, this map shows the average colo(u)r of US state flags. The idea of an average color is a bit odd, particularly when you think about distinctive flags like those of Arizona and Maryland showing up as shades of brown. But look at the way that Washington and New Mexico pop amongst the sea of blues and violets. The point of a flag is to be distinctive and immediately identifiable. 

I thought it would be fun to see how my ranking of the best and worst state flags matches up with their average color. I ranked the flags before Minnesota adopted a much better flag, so on the map below, you'll find it labeled with rest of the Top Contenders (smily hearts) and not with the Bottom of the Pack (frowny faces). 

There is definitely a correlation between my favorite state flags and how unique their average color is. Similarly, the numerous states with a state seal on a navy background (and basically the same average color) can never achieve the primary purpose of a flag: to be distinctive and immediately identifiable. The correlation isn't perfect, but it's there. 

I recommend following Terrible Maps on Facebook or the platform of your choice. There's also a book. Outdiana. Hehe. 

Terrible Maps (affiliate link)

I'm a big fan of combining hilarity and cartography. I'm glad I'm not the only one.