Can you pass this North Carolina history test? Published 8:35 p.m. today Here is a test for you. Look at our state flag. There are a couple of dates. One of them is May 20, 1775. Why is it there? A few years ago I wrote a column about Charlotte lawyer Scott Syfert’s book, “The First American Declaration of Independence? The Disputed History of the Mecklenburg Declaration of May 20, 1775.” If you don’t know, or even if you do, keep reading and learn why folks in Charlotte are busy preparing to celebrate the 246th anniversary of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence (“Meck Dec”).