The N States of America

The Congress of the United States is once again addressing the question of adding Puerto Rico as the 51st state. Who could be opposed to this? Republicans might be concerned about adding two new senators from a state likely to go strong for the Democratic party. English-Only activists might be unhappy about more Spanish speakers... However, the single lobby that should be MOST interested in adding a new state is the Flag Manufacturers Association of America. Just think of all the new flags that people will feel compelled to buy!

But how would we fit 51 stars on the blue field of the flag? At Salon.com today, a mathematician figures out the best way to jam an extra star onto the American flag. Plus: Generate patterns for every possible flag up to 100 stars.



After Puerto Rico, who's next?