The seven-flags logo above, from the masthead of the Laredo Morning Times newspaper, is symbolic of the historic link that Laredo and the surrounding area has had to seven countries. This region at various times was claimed by France and governed, in order, by Spain, Mexico, the Republic of the Rio Grande (La República del Río Grande), the State of Texas, the Confederacy, and the United States.

The approximate years of the various claims were: Spain, 1519-1685 and 1690-1821; France, 1685-1690; Mexico, 1821-1836; Texas, 1836-1845; the Republic of the Rio Grande, January-November 1840; the Confederate States of America, 1861-1865; and the United States of America 1853-1861 and 1865-present.