Who first said don't tread on me?

The phrase "Don't tread on me" is associated with the Gadsden Flag, which was designed in 1775 by American general Christopher Gadsden during the American Revolution. The flag featured a rattlesnake coiled and ready to strike, symbolizing the colonies' willingness to defend their rights. The phrase itself became a rallying cry for American independence and has since been adopted in various contexts.