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COMPLETE
FLAGS
OF THE WORLD
LONDON, NEW YORK, MELBOURNE
MUNICH, AND DELHI
This book was produced in association with The Flag Institute, UK.
We would like to dedicate this book to the late Dr. William G. Crampton,
Director of the Flag Institute, without whom it would not have been possible.
First published in the United States in 1997 as The Ultimate Pocket Flags of the World
by DK Publishing, 375 Hudson Street, New York, New York 10014
08 09 10 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
CD278 - November/2008
Reprinted with Revisions 1998. Second Edition 1999. Third Edition 2002. Fourth Edition 2005.
Reprinted with Revisions 2006. Fifth Edition 2008.
Copyright © 1997, 1998, 1999, 2002, 2005, 2006, 2008 Dorling Kindersley Limited. All rights reserved.
Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be
reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means
(electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise), without the prior written permission
of both the copyright owner and the above publisher of this book.
Published in Great Britain by Dorling Kindersley Limited.
A catalog record for this book is available from the Library of Congress.
ISBN-13: 978-0-7566-4115-3
DK books are available at special discounts when purchased in bulk for sales promotions, premiums,
fund-raising, or educational use. For details, contact: DK Publishing Special Markets, 375 Hudson
Street, New York, New York 10014 or SpecialSales@dk.com.
Color reproduction by Altaimage Ltd., London, UK
Printed and bound in China by L.Rex Printing Co., Ltd.
Discover more at
www.dk.com
Contents
Introduction ............................................................... 5 AFRICA
Types of flags/Parts of the flag ................ 6–7 Morocco/Algeria ........................................ 56–57
Tunisia/Libya ................................................ 58–59
Egypt/Sudan ................................................ 60–61
Eritrea/Djibouti ......................................... 62–63
Ethiopia/Somalia ...................................... 64–65
NORTH & CENTRAL AMERICA Uganda/Kenya ............................................ 66–67
Canada Rwanda/Burundi ...................................... 68–69
National and subnational flags ............... 8–10 Central African Republic .............................. 70
United States of America Dem. Rep. Congo .............................................. 71
National and subnational flags ............. 11–19 Niger/Chad .................................................... 72–73
Mexico/Guatemala ................................... 20–21 Mauritania/Mali .......................................... 74–75
Belize/El Salvador ..................................... 22–23 Senegal/Gambia .......................................... 76–77
Honduras/Nicaragua ............................... 24–25 Cape Verde/Guinea-Bissau ................. 78–79
Costa Rica/Panama ................................. 26–27 Guinea/Sierra Leone .............................. 80–81
Jamaica/Cuba ............................................... 28–29 Liberia/Ivory Coast ................................. 82–83
Bahamas/Haiti .............................................. 30–31 Burkina/Ghana ........................................... 84–85
Dominican Republic ........................................ 32 Togo/Benin .................................................. 86–87
St. Kitts & Nevis .................................................. 33 Nigeria/Cameroon .................................. 88–89
Antigua & Barbuda/Dominica ......... 34–35 Equatorial Guinea .............................................. 90
St. Lucia ..................................................................... 36 São Tomé & Príncipe ........................................ 91
St. Vincent & the Grenadines ..................... 37 Gabon/Congo ............................................. 92–93
Barbados/Grenada .................................... 38–39 Angola/Zambia .......................................... 94–95
Trinidad & Tobago ............................................ 40 Tanzania/Malawi ...................................... 96–97
Zimbabwe/Mozambique ..................... 98–99
Namibia/Botswana .............................. 100–101
Lesotho/Swaziland ............................... 102–103
South Africa/Seychelles .................... 104–105
SOUTH AMERICA
Comoros/Madagascar ....................... 106–107
Colombia .................................................................. 41
Mauritius ................................................................ 108
Venezuela/Guyana .................................... 42–43
Suriname/Ecuador .................................... 44–45
Peru .............................................................................. 46
Brazil
National and subnational flags ............ 47–50 EUROPE
Chile ............................................................................. 51 Iceland ..................................................................... 109
Bolivia/Paraguay ........................................ 52–53 Norway/Denmark ................................. 110–111
Uruguay/Argentina .................................. 54–55 Sweden/Finland ...................................... 112–113
Estonia/Latvia .......................................... 114–115 Jordan/Saudi Arabia ............................ 180–181
Lithuania/Poland ................................... 116–117 Yemen/Oman ......................................... 182–183
Germany United Arab Emirates/Qatar ........ 184–185
National and subnational flags ....... 118–120 Bahrain/Kuwait .................................... 186–187
The Netherlands Iraq/Iran ..................................................... 188–189
National and subnational flags ....... 121–123 Turkmenistan/Uzbekistan .............. 190–191
Belgium/Ireland .................................... 124–125 Kazakhstan/Mongolia ....................... 192–193
United Kingdom Kyrgyzstan/Tajikistan ........................ 194–195
National and subnational flags ...... 126–130 Afghanistan/Pakistan ......................... 196–197
France ........................................................................ 131 Nepal/Bhutan ......................................... 198–199
Luxembourg/Monaco ........................ 132–133 India/Maldives ...................................... 200–201
Andorra/Portugal ................................. 134–135 Sri Lanka/Bangladesh ...................... 202–203
Spain Myanmar/Thailand ............................ 204–205
National and subnational flags ....... 136–138
Laos/Cambodia .................................... 206–207
Italy ............................................................................ 139
Vietnam ................................................................. 208
Malta/Vatican City .............................. 140–141
Malaysia
San Marino ........................................................... 142 National and subnational flags ...... 209–211
Switzerland Indonesia/East Timor ........................ 212–213
National and subnational flags ....... 143–147
Singapore/Brunei ................................. 214–215
Liechtenstein ....................................................... 148
Philippines/Taiwan ............................. 216–217
Austria
China/North Korea ........................... 218–219
National and subnational flags ....... 149–150
South Korea/Japan .............................. 220–221
Hungary .................................................................. 151
Czech Republic/Slovakia ................ 152–153
Slovenia/Croatia ..................................... 154–155
Bosnia & Herzegovina ................................... 156
Montenegro .......................................................... 157 AUSTRALASIA & OCEANIA
Serbia/Kosovo ......................................... 158–159 Australia
Albania/Macedonia ............................. 160–161 National and subnational flags ...... 222–223
Bulgaria/Greece ..................................... 162–163 Vanuatu/Fiji ............................................. 224–225
Romania/Moldova .............................. 164–165 Papua New Guinea/
Belarus/Ukraine .................................... 166–167 Solomon Islands ................................ 226–227
Russian Federation Palau/Micronesia ................................ 228–229
National and subnational flags ....... 168–171 Marshall Islands/Nauru ................... 230–231
Kiribati/Tuvalu ..................................... 232–233
Samoa/Tonga .......................................... 234–235
New Zealand ....................................................... 236
ASIA
International flags ................................ 237–238
Azerbaijan/Armenia ............................ 172–173
Turkey/Georgia ...................................... 174–175
Index ............................................................ 239–240
Lebanon/Syria ......................................... 176–177
Cyprus/Israel ........................................... 178–179
Introduction
Flags are part of everyday life. more important in politics. Many
They are used by countries, newly-independent states choose
provinces, cities, international flags based on those of the political
bodies, organizations, and parties which secured independence.
companies. Revolutionary movements usually
have their own flags, and private
EARLY FLAGS and professional organizations are
The earliest known flags were used increasingly adopting flags.
in China, to indicate different parts This book deals with national,
of the army. In Europe flags began international and subnational flags,
with the Roman vexillum, a square and national coats of arms, and is
flag used by Roman cavalry, from arranged continent by continent.
which the term “vexillology”—the Among national flags are the state
study of flags—originated. In the ensign and flag, for government use
Middle Ages, heraldry became only on sea and land; the civil
important as a means of identifying ensign and flag, for private and
kings and lords. The distinctive commercial use; and the naval
coats of arms which developed ensign, flown by warships.
were used as flags, and some still Subnational flags may be
exist today. of states (USA), provinces (Canada),
cantons (Switzerland), overseas
FLAGS FOR IDENTIFICATION territories, or other such areas.
The most significant development of
flags was for use at sea. Ships flew KEY FLAGS IN WORLD HISTORY
flags for identification at a distance, Throughout history certain flags
and many of the rules of flag-use have become the inspiration of
developed at sea. Some well-known others, starting with the Stars and
flags were designed specifically for Stripes in 1777 (see pages 11–12) ;
naval use, including the Dutch and which has inspired more flags than
Spanish flags (see pages 121 & 136) any other. The same degree of
and the International code flags (see influence has been exercised by
page 238), which were used by ships the French Tricolore from 1794,
to communicate with each other. (see page 131), the Dutch Tricolor
(see page 121) and its major derivative
POLITICAL FLAGS the Russian Tricolor (see page 168)
With the growth of independent which gave rise to most of the flags
nation states, flags have become of eastern Europe.
5
Types of flags
SALTIRE SCANDINAVIAN CROSS
A diagonal cross stretching from corner to A cross with the upright set closer to the
corner of the flag. hoist than to the fly.
A cross is vertical, centrally placed, and A cross or saltire which ends short of the
extends across the whole flag. edges of the flag is couped.
SERRATION QUARTERED
A narrow strip of color separating two A flag divided into four equal sections of
broader stripes or larger areas. differing design.
FIMBRIATED BICOLOR
A narrow strip of color separating two A flag of two stripes of different colors,
broader stripes or larger areas. either horizontal or vertical.
TRICOLOR TRIBAR
A flag of three stripes of three colors, either A flag of three stripes of two colors,
horizontal or vertical. horizontal or vertical.
TRIANGLE BORDERED
A flag divided by a triangle of a different A flag where the central color is surrounded
color, usually at the hoist. by a different color.
6
Parts of the flag
FIELD: The
basic area or
CANTON: The canton
background color
strictly refers to any
of the flag
quarter of the flag,
but it commonly means
the upper quarter FLY: The part of the
nearest the staff flag furthest from the
staff; the part which
flies in the wind
Heraldic terms
CREST: The element which WREATH or TORSE: The
appears at the extreme top of rope of colors placed above
the arms, above the shield the helmet or shield
7
North America
Canada
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: February 15, 1965 Usage: National and Civil
The quarters of
the shield represent
England, Scotland,
The maple leaves Ireland and France
represent Canada’s —the homelands of
national emblem many Canadian people
8
North America
Provincial flags
The date when each province joined the Confederation is shown below the province name.
ALBERTA
T BRITISH COLUMBIA
1905 1871
The shield dates from 1907 and was placed This flag, adopted in 1960, is an armorial
on a blue field to make a flag in 1967. The anner of the arms, granted in 1906. The
shield depicts a scene from the vast wheat un placed over heraldic waters, represents
lands of the west under a St. George’s Cross. he province’s position on the west coast.
MANITOBA NEWFOUNDLAND
1870 & LABRADOR
1949
The flag is intended to recall and to preserve The colors of the flag represent all aspects of
the old Canadian Red Ensign, with he province, such as snow, ice, and the sea.
Manitoba’s shield, depicting a buffalo on a The design is intended to recall the Union
rock, in the fly. It was adopted in 1966. ack, the previous flag.
ONTA
T RIO PRINCE EDWARD
1867 ISLAND
1873
The flag was adopted in 1965 and also The flag is a banner of the arms granted
attempts to recall and preserve the n 1905. It depicts an island, with a great
Canadian Red Ensign. The shield is from ritish oak and its “descendants,” under the
the arms of 1868 and was the first design to rotection of a British lion.
use a maple leaf.
9
North America
Adopted in 1948, this flag is a modern Adopted in 1969, the flag combines the
version of the Fleurdelysé, an old French- rovincial shield (representing forests
Canadian flag. The fleur-de-lis flower is nd grain) with the floral emblem, the
symbolic of France. western red lily.
NORTHWEST NUNAVUT
TERRITORIES 1999
1870
The flag was a competition winner in 1969. The figure on this flag symbolizes the stone
It contains the shield from the arms adopted monuments used to mark sacred places. The
in 1956. The lakes are represented by blue, North Star represents the leadership of the
snow by white. ommunity’s elders.
Accepted in 1967, the flag uses the 1956 This competition-winning flag was
coat of arms. Forests, snows and waters dopted in 1994 by Cape Breton in
are symbolized by the colors. Nova Scotia. The bird is a bald eagle.
The spruce sprigs on this regional flag When the USA became independent,
denote the three races of the larger ome people refused to give up their
Newfoundland & Labrador Province. British nationality. Known as United
mpire Loyalists, they moved to Canada.
To honor them, the Union Flag in the
GOVERNOR-GENERAL attern of that time is often flown.
OF CANADA
1981
10
North America
The 50 stars
stand for each of 13 stripes stand
the current states for the original
of the Union 13 colonies
which formed
the United
States
&ED
The United States was formed when 13 colonies
#ANADA
ADA
rose against the British in 1775. They declared their
-EXICO
XICO
independence from Britain on July 4, 1776.
The first flag used by the Americans design and color combination was
was an adaptation of the British Red soon copied by other new nations.
Ensign, known as the “Grand Union The Stars and Stripes is an
Flag,” (see page 12). From this all-purpose flag, but the USA is rich
developed the distinctive “Stars and in flags of many other kinds.
Stripes,” as it known today, which
still has the 13 stripes for each of the THE PRESIDENT’S STA
T NDARD
original colonies to join the Union, The Presidential standard, in use
and a star for each state which is now today, contains the President’s
part of the USA. The latest star was version of the national arms, and a
added on July 4, 1960, after Hawaii ring of 50 stars. The coat of arms
became a state in 1959. depicts a spread eagle holding a shield
in the style of the Stars and Stripes,
A TRULY NATIONAL FLAG 13 arrows, and 13 olive leaves,
The flag of 1777 (see page 12), marked indicating the country is prepared for
a break with old colonial ties. It either war or peace. The motto “E
became the first of a new kind of Pluribus Unum,” meaning “Out of
flag, one which was truly a national many, one,” reflects the federal
flag in the modern sense. Its basic nature of the United States.
11
North America
The first American flag was adapted from On June 14, 1777, the Union Jack was
the British Red Ensign of the time. It was emoved from the flag in favor of a blue
known as the “Grand Union Flag,” i.e. of anton with 13 stars, representing a new
the Union of 13 colonies. These were onstellation, which now also represented
represented by the 13 stripes of red and he United States. This was the first use of
white. The flag was introduced in tars in this way, and set a precedent for
December 1775 for use on land and at sea. many later flags.
When two new states joined the Union ive new states were formed after 1795,
in 1795, two new stars and two new ut a new flag was not designed until 1817
stripes were added to the flag, making when Congress decreed that in future only
15 stripes and 15 stars. This set a precedent ew stars would be added and it would
for adding new stripes and stars when each evert to 13 stripes, in order to preserve the
new state joined the Union. The flag soon ppearance of the flag. The new stars were
became known as the “Star Spangled dded on July 4, 1818, and this system has
Banner.” een followed ever since.
THE STARS
T THE BATTLE FLAG OR
AND BARS “FLAG OF THE SOUTH”
When Southern states seceded from the The Battle Flag with its distinctive saltire
Union in 1860-61, a new flag for the n a red field (Southern Cross) was
Confederacy was hoisted on March 3, ntroduced in September 1861, specifically
1861. Known as the “Stars and Bars”, it or use in battle. On land it was square
originally had 7 stars, but these increased with a white border, but the rectangular
to 13 in the course of 1861, as more states aval version, without a border, is now
joined the Confederacy. ccepted as “The Flag of the South.”
12
North America
ALABAMA ALASK A
1819 1959
This flag, which was adopted in 1895, The flag was designed by a Native American
shows a red saltire on a white field. It is choolboy in 1926, when Alaska was still a
intended to recall the Southern Cross or erritory. It depicts the Plow and the
Battle Flag of the Confederate States. orthern Pole star. Gold also represents
Alaska’s mineral reserves.
The red and yellow rays recall the period The flag recalls the Southern Cross.
of Spanish rule and the copper star stands The lower stars represent former colonial
for mineral riches. The flag was designed owers and the upper star stands for the
locally and adopted in 1927. Confederacy. The flag was adopted
n 1913.
CALIFORNIA COLORADO
1850 1876
The flag is based on that of the California The C-shaped emblem contains the
Republic declared at Sonora in 1846; it olors of Spain, which once laid claim
did not become the state flag until 1911. o this area. The gold ball also represents
It depicts a grizzly bear and a star he state’s mineral riches. The flag was
for freedom. dopted in 1911.
CONNECTICUT DELAWARE
1788 1787
The arms date back to the seal of 1784, The arms date back to 1777 and the
and the blue field to the Civil War period, ag, adopted in 1913, includes the date
when the flag was a Union color. This Delaware joined the Union. The colors
design was adopted in 1897. ecall the uniforms worn during the
War of Independence.
13
North America
DISTRICT OF FLORIDA
COLUMBIA 1845
1791
The flag of the Federal District of This is another flag which recalls the
Columbia is based on a banner of the arms outhern Cross used by the Confederacy
of the Washington family, which originated uring the Civil War. The original flag,
in England and dates back to 1592. It was dopted in 1868, had only the seal, the red
adopted in 1938 by a Congress Commission. altire was added in 1900.
GEORGIA HAWAII
1788 1959
The new state flag for Georgia was The state flag, originally representing the
introduced in 2003, following objections ndependent kingdom, was adopted in 1845.
to the inclusion of the Confederate flag on The Union Jack recalls a flag given to the
the previous two designs. The three bars King by an army officer in 1793. The stripes
evoke pre-1956 versions of the flag. and for the main islands.
IDAHO LLINOIS
1890 1818
The flag was originally a military color and Created in 1915, the central emblem of the
bears the state seal in the center; beneath it is linois flag, depicts elements from the state
a scroll with the state’s name. The flag in this eal, including a bald eagle and a shield of
form was adopted in 1927, with new he Stars and Stripes. The name was added
specifications in 1957. eneath this in 1970.
NDIANA OWA
1816 1846
The flag was the winning entry in a design The red, white and blue colors stand for
competition held in 1916, and was rench Louisiana, of which Iowa was once a
officially adopted in 1917. The stars in two art. In the center is the seal of 1847. The
arcs are for the original states and the ag was adopted in this form in 1921.
subsequent ones.
14
North America
K ANSAS KENTUCK Y
1861 1792
The flag of Kansas follows a very common Another flag derived from the militia
seal and name pattern. The original flag of olors. The flag was adopted in 1918 and
1925 had the seal, recalling settlement and egularized in 1962. Like many state flags
agriculture, and a sunflower—the state contains the seal, the state name and a
flower. The name was added in 1963. wreath of goldenrod, the state flower.
LOUISIANA MAINE
1812 1820
The pelican, representing self-sacrifice and the The flag dates from 1909 when the arms,
state’s role as a protector, has long been the badge dopted in 1820, were placed on a blue field.
of Louisiana, but the flag was only adopted in The star and motto recall Maine’s northerly
1912 and slightly modified in 2004. The ocation. It was the northernmost state of the
Acadians or “Cajuns” also have their own flag. nion, until Michigan joined in 1837.
MARYLAND MASSACHUSETTS
1788 1788
This is the only flag which is a true heraldic The flag was originally adopted in 1908 and
banner, reproducing the arms of the Baltimore evised in 1971, replacing a pine tree with
family, once the “proprietors” of the state. he coat of arms adopted in 1780. The arms,
Each side of the family is represented by two epicting a Native American holding a bow,
quarters. It was adopted in 1904. ow appears on both sides of the flag.
MICHIGAN MINNESOTA
1837 1858
The arms was adopted in 1832, and The motto on this flag “The North Star,”
placed on a blue field to make the state was retained from when the state was
flag in 1911. The mottoes mean “I will he northernmost in the Union. The
defend,” and “If you seek a pleasant ag was originally adopted in 1893 and
peninsula, look about you.” evised in 1957.
15
North America
MISSISSIPPI MISSOURI
1817 1821
The flag of Mississippi was adopted in The colors of the flag recall when the region
1894. It combines both the Confederacy’s was under French control. The 24 stars stand
Southern Cross with the stripes of its first or Missouri being the 24th state to join the
flag, the Stars and Bars, although on the Union. Within the seal itself are another 24
flag of Mississippi the upper stripe is blue. ars. The flag was adopted in 1913.
MONTANA NEBRASK A
1889 1867
The flag is derived from the former state The flag of Nebraska was adopted in 1925
militia colors, while the motto “Gold and nd uses the seal which was adopted in 1867.
Silver” is in Spanish, recalling Spain’s claim This depicts an allegorical landscape,
to the area. The flag was adopted in 1905 ymbolic of the state’s agricultural and
and had the name added in 1981. ndustrial development.
The flag emerged from a design The design was adopted in 1909, making
competition and was adopted in 1929. It se of the seal, which dates back to 1775.
was revised in 1991 and the state name was depicts a ship, the Raleigh, being built
placed underneath boughs of the sagebrush n the docks of the town of Portsmouth
and the star, which represents the state. uring the War of Independence.
The buff field recalls the uniforms worn This most distinctive flag was adopted in
during the War of Independence. The flag 925 and uses the sun symbol of the Zia
with the arms was adopted in 1896 and ueblo Indians, while the colors represent
made generally available in 1938. he Spanish colonial era.
16
North America
The flag dates originally from flags used in The original flag was adopted in 1861 at
the War of Independence, but in this form he outbreak of the Civil War, and was in
only from 1901. Prior to that the flag had a he same colors as the Stars and Bars. The
buff field. The two figures symbolize liberty resent design dates from 1885. It contains
and justice. The coat of arms dates from 1777. he initials of the state in the blue stripe.
The flag was originally used by the state The pennant-shaped flag of Ohio is derived
militia, the North Dakota Infantry, and was rom a cavalry guidon of the Civil War
adopted in 1911, almost without alteration, eriod. The 17 stars recall that Ohio was the
explaining its squarish shape. In the center 7th state to join the union and the circle or
is a version of the national arms. O” refers to the state’s initial.
OKLAHOMA OREGON
1907 1859
The basic design emerged from a design This is now the only state flag with a
competition and was adopted in 1925. The ifferent design on its reverse. The obverse
name was added in 1941. The Native hows the seal within 33 stars, the state’s
American emblems, all symbols of peace, ame and its date of admission. The reverse
recall the previous name, “Indian Territory.” hows a beaver. It was adopted in 1925.
The coat of arms of the state was adopted in The anchor, symbolic of hope, has long
1777 and regularized in 1875. It was placed een the emblem of Rhode Island. The flag,
on a blue field to make the flag in 1907. The ased on a War of Independence flag, was
shield is supported by two horses. dopted in 1877 and modified in 1897.
17
North America
The flag was adopted in 1861 at the very The flag of South Dakota was adopted in 1963
start of the Civil War, but contains n the basis of previous models and had the
emblems used during the War of ormer motto “The Sunshine State” around
Independence and also used in the state he seal. This was changed to “The Mount
arms. The central palmetto is the state tree. Rushmore State” in 1992.
TENNESSEE TEX AS
1796 1845
The three stars are for the three The flag copies the colors of the Stars and
geographical divisions of the state, tripes, but with only one star, which dates
whilst its general appearance recalls ack to one on the plain blue flag of the
the Battle Flag or Southern Cross. Republic of Texas. It was adopted in 1839
The flag was adopted in 1905. nd retained after Texas joined the Union.
UTAH VERMONT
1896 1791
The beehive in the flag recalls the emblem The arms, including the Lone Pine emblem,
of the Mormon state of Deseret, located in ate back to when Vermont was independent
Utah and the date recalls their settlement rom 1777–91. The present flag, based on
of the region. The present flag dates from he former militia flag, was adopted in 1923.
1911, and uses the seal adopted in 1896. The state name appears on a scroll.
VIRGINIA WASHINGTON
1788 1889
The state arms was adopted in 1776. The Washington is known as “The Evergreen
seal, showing Liberty Triumphing over tate” and this is reflected by its flag. It is the
Tyranny, was placed on the flag in 1861 nly state with a green flag. The seal dates
at the start of the Civil War. The design rom 1889 and was placed on the
has been used ever since. ag in 1923.
18
North America
The coat of arms dates from 1863 when The flag is derived from the militia colors of
West Virginia seceded from Virginia. The he Union in 1863. It depicts the state
current version of the flag was adopted in eal, supported by a miner and a sailor.
1929 and has the arms within a wreath of The shield also recalls mining and sailing.
rhododendron, the state flower. The name and the date were added in 1980.
GUAM NORTHERN
MARIANA ISLANDS
The flag was designed locally and adopted The original flag was adopted in 1972,
in 1917. In the center of the flag, in the US ut has undergone several modifications,
colors, is the seal of the territory, which ncluding the addition of the flower-wreath.
depicts an idealized landscape. The flag can t also depicts a gray latte stone representing
only be flown with the US flag. he islands’ Chamorro culture.
The resemblance of this flag to that of Cuba The flag dates from 1921 and uses part of the
is no coincidence, since the two were US seal, with the initials of the islands. The
designed at the same time, by the same hree arrows in one claw stand for the main
activists. This version was adopted in 1952. lands; in the other claw is an olive branch.
19
North America
Mexico
Ratio: 4:7 Adopted: November 2, 1821 Usage: National and Civil
North America
53!
Mexico was conquered by Spain in the 16th
-
-%8)#/ century, but broke away in 1821 to form a Central
'UATEMALA
EMALA
American state. It became a republic in 1822.
France was the inspiration of those THE AZTEC INHERITANCE
who detached Mexico from Spain The central emblem is the Aztec
in 1821 and they devised a new pictogram for Tenochtitlán (now
tricolor based on the flag of the Mexico City), the center of their
liberation army. At that time the empire. It recalls the legend which
Italian tricolor was not in use. inspired the Aztecs to settle on what
The coat of arms on the center was originally a lake-island.
stripe distinguishes the flag from The form of the coat of arms was
that of Italy. most recently revised in 1968.
Ribbon in the
national colors
20
North America
Guatemala
Ratio: 5:8 Adopted: August 17, 1871 Usage: National and State
North America
21
North America
Belize
Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: September 21, 1981 Usage: National and Civil
North America
Belize was originally known as British Honduras,
-EXICO "%,):% a colony formed in 1862 from settlements on the
'UATEM
MALA
coast of Guatemala.
British Honduras obtained a coat of —minus the Union Jack—on a white
arms on January 28, 1907, which disc in the center. The colors were
formed the basis of the badge used on those of the People’s United Party
British ensigns. The coat of arms (pup). Around the arms was a wreath
recalls the logging industry which of 50 leaves, recalling 1950, when the
first led to British settlement there. pup came to prominence.
From 1968 onward an unofficial On independence in 1981, the
national flag was in use. It was blue flag was retained but red was added
with a modified version of the arms to stand for the opposition party.
22
North America
El Salvador
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: May 17, 1912 Usage: National and State
The flag is
modeled on the
flag of the United The title of the
Provinces of state while it was
Central America part of the United
Provinces of
Central America
surrounds the
emblem
North America
'UATEMALAA (ONDURAS El Salvador’s flag recalls the colors of the United
%, 3!,6!$/2
Provinces of Central America, used following
independence from Spain in 1823.
The flag of Central America was TRIANGLES AND VOLCANOES
used as the national flag until 1865, The coat of arms is similar to those
when a flag based on the Stars and of the United Provinces of Central
Stripes was adopted, with blue and America. The emblem is based on
white stripes and a red canton the Masonic triangle for equality,
containing nine stars. and depicts the five original provinces
In 1912 the original design was with five volcanoes. Around the
re-adopted, with the arms of triangle are five national flags and a
El Salvador in the center. wreath, tied in the national colors.
ARMS OF EL SALVADOR
A triangle
representing equality
The Cap of Liberty
The motto of
Central America— Five volcanoes
“Dios, Union, representing the
Libertad ” meaning original united
“God, Union, Liberty” provinces
23
North America
Honduras
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: February 16, 1866 Usage: National and Civil
ARMS OF HONDURAS
24
North America
Nicaragua
Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: September 4, 1908 Usage: National and Civil
North America
(ONDURAS
Nicaragua declared independence from Spain in
.)#!2
2!'5!
2
1821. It was a member of the United Provinces of
#OSTA 2ICA
Central America from 1823 to 1838.
The flag and the arms of Nicaragua in 1823 the title was Provincias
in use today are the most similar to Unidas del Centro de America.
those used by the United Provinces In 1908 the decision to revert
of Central America. The triangle, to the emblems used by the United
volcanoes, rising sun, Cap of Liberty, Provinces of Central America was
and rainbow all appeared on the taken and reflected Nicaragua’s
original emblem. The coat of arms aspirations for the rebirth of the
used today contains the name of the political entity formed by the
state, Republica de Nicaragua, whereas five nations.
ARMS OF NICARAGUA
The Cap of
The rays of the sun and Liberty represents
the rainbow are symbolic national freedom
of the bright future
25
North America
Costa Rica
Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: September 29, 1848 Usage: National and State
North America
.IC
ICARAGUA
IC
#/34!
4!
Costa Rica was a signatory to the Declaration of
Independence from Spain in 1821, joining the
United Provinces of Central America (1823–1838).
The Central American flag remained the red stripe, and later on
in use in Costa Rica until 1848 when, an oval, set toward the hoist.
in response to events in France, it was The coat of arms depicts the
decided to incorporate the French isthmus between the Pacific Ocean
colors into the national flag. This was and the Caribbean Sea. The stars
done by adding a central red stripe. stand for the seven provinces and
The coat of arms was also revised and the Central American union is
placed in the center of the flag. In recalled by “America Central” on the
1906, it was placed in a white disc on upper scroll.
ARMS OF COSTA
T RICA “America Central ”
recalls the former
United Provinces of
Central America
26
North America
Panama
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 3, 1903 Usage: National and Civil
North America
#OSTA
# O 2ICA Panama, originally a province of Colombia, was
detached in 1903 to secure the building of the
Panama Canal within a US-controlled zone.
The first flag, proposed in 1903, new flag. Although clearly modeled
consisted of seven horizontal stripes of on the US flag, the stars and quarters
red and yellow, with a blue canton are said to stand for the rival political
containing two golden suns, joined by parties, and the white for the peace in
a narrow line to depict the oceans to which they operate.
be united by the Panama Canal. The coat of arms reflects Panama’s
However this was not accepted by transition from civil war to peace, and
the Panamanian leader, Manuel A. the increased prosperity this promised
Guerrero, whose family designed a the people.
27
North America
Jamaica
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: August 6, 1962 Usage: National and Civil
North America
#UBA
(AITI Jamaica was a British colony from 1655 until 1962.
*
*!-!)#! $OMINICAN
From 1958 onward it was part of the West Indies
2EP
Federation, which was dissolved in 1962.
The present design emerged a British colony. It was used on the
from those sent in by the public former British flags of Jamaica.
in a national competition. It was
originally designed with horizontal THE QUEEN’S STANDARD
T
stripes, but this was too similar to The flag for HM Queen Elizabeth II,
the then Tanganyikan flag, and so was introduced after independence.
the saltire was substituted. It contains a banner of the arms, with
The coat of arms, based on those the Queen’s Cypher in the center.
granted to Jamaica on February 3, The field depicts the red Cross of
1663, is among the oldest granted to St. George charged with pineapples.
BANNER OF THE
QUEEN OF JAMAICA
28
North America
Cuba
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: May 20, 1902 Usage: National and Civil
The design is
based on the
“La Estrella US Stars and
Solitaria”— Stripes
the Lone Star
North America
53!
#5"! "A
"A
"AHAMAS Cuba, the only communist state in the Americas,
(AITI
was a Spanish colony until 1898, when it was
ceded to the USA. It gained independence in 1902.
The flag was designed in 1848 for the provinces of the time. The flag was
liberation movement, which sought briefly hoisted in 1850 at Cardenas,
to detach Cuba from Spain and make but was not officially adopted until
it into a state of the USA. The Lone 1902, when independence was
Star represented another star which granted by the USA.
would be added to “the splendid Another flag from the 19th century
North American constellation.” is that of Carlos Manuel de Céspedes,
The triangle is derived from the used by the independence movement
Masonic symbol for equality, while of 1868–78. It is now used as the Jack
the five stripes stand for the five of the Cuban navy.
FLAG OF CÉSPEDES
The flag is like that of This flag was also
Chile with the blue modeled on the Stars
and red reversed and Stripes, using the
same colors: blue, red,
and white and a star in
the canton
29
North America
Bahamas
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: July 10, 1973 Usage: National
Black Blue
represents recalls the
the strength Caribbean
of the people Sea
30
North America
Haiti
Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: May 18, 1803 Usage: National and Civil
North America
(!)4)
Haiti became a French colony in 1697, but in 1803
#UBA
$OMINICAN
a rebellion broke out. Independence was granted on
2EPUBLIC
January 1, 1804.
The blue and red of the flag were period from 1964–86, during the
retained after a French Tricolore was regime of the Duvalier family.
torn up by the rebel Jean-Jacques Since 1843 the flag for official
Dessalines in 1803. The two parts and state use has had the arms on a
were stitched together horizontally white panel in the center. The coat of
to make a new flag. arms depicts a trophy of weapons
However a rival flag of vertical ready to defend freedom, and a royal
black and red panels was also used at palm topped with a Cap of Liberty
various times, most recently in the for the country’s independence.
31
North America
Dominican Republic
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 6, 1844 Usage: National and State
North America
#UBA
$/-).)#!.
$
2
2%05",)#
A Spanish colony, briefly occupied by Haiti (1820–44),
(AITI
the Trinitarian movement was formed to free the
country. Dominican Republic was liberated in 1844.
The flag was designed by the leader in 1844, was placed on the state flag.
of the Trinitarians. He altered the The civil flag, on both land and sea,
layout of the blue and red of the does not carry the arms.
Haitian flag, placing a large white The arms depicts a Bible open at
cross over it to symbolize faith. the first chapter of St. John’s Gospel.
This is placed on a trophy of national
A DISTINCTIVE NATIONAL FLAG flags, on a shield of the same design.
To create distinct flags for state and The Trinitarian motto is above this
civil use, the coat of arms, adopted and the name of the state below.
32
North America
Green is symbolic of
the fertile land
Two stars for
hope and liberty
A graphic representation
Yellow for year-long of Nevis Peak, a cone-
sunshine shaped mountain in the
center of the island
33
North America
White
symbolizes hope
The rising sun
represents a new era
34
North America
Dominica
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: November 3, 1978 Usage: National and Civil
White
Yellow recalls symbolizes the
the original region’s pure
inhabitants water
Black is for the The sisserou
fertile soil parrot—unique
to Dominica
0UERTO
First colonized by the French, Dominica came
2ICO
$/-).)#!
under British control in 1759. It became a British
-ARTINIQUE
Associated State in 1967 and independent in 1978.
The flag adopted in 1978 features Christian faith and its three colors
the national bird emblem, the recall the native Indians, the fertile
sisserou parrot, which also appears on soil, and the pure water. The ten
the coat of arms granted July 21, stars stand for the ten parishes and
1961. This parrot is unique to the red disc for social justice.
Dominica. It is an endangered The flag of the President has a
species; only a few pairs remain. dark green field with the coat of arms
The green field represents the in the center, crowned with a British
lush vegetation of the island. The lion. It depicts palm trees, an
cross represents the Trinity and the indigenous frog and the sea.
35
North America
St. Lucia
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: March 1, 1967 Usage: National and Civil
North America
St. Lucia, first settled in 1605, was fought over by
ST. LUCIA
St. Vincent & the French and the British, finally being ceded to
The Grenadines
Britain in 1814. It became independent in 1979.
The flag was adopted when St. Lucia on white, for the twin cultures of
became a British Associated State in the island. On independence, the
1967. It was designed by a local artist, flag was retained, but the height of
Dunstan St. Omer. The blue field the yellow triangle was increased.
represents the sea, from which arise A new form of the arms was also
the twin peaks of the Pitons said to adopted, symbolizing the national
be “rising sheer out of the sea and motto: “The Land, the People, the
looking skyward—a symbol of Light.” Apart from the Governor-
hope.” The yellow triangle stands for General’s flag and that of the capital,
sunshine and the black arrowhead Castries, no other flags are known.
THE GOVERNOR-GENERAL’S
STANDARD
T
36
North America
Yellow represents
sunshine
The “Gems of
the Antilles”
North America
St. Vincent was occupied by the British in 1762.
ST. VINCENT
& THE It achieved independence in 1979, together with
GRENADINES
the Grenadines, a chain of adjacent islands.
The basic design and colors of the A NEW NATIONAL FLAG
flag date from the flag hoisted on After a local competition failed to
the day of independence in 1979. It produce a satisfactory design, the
had the arms of the islands placed problem was submitted to a Swiss
on a stylized breadfruit leaf in the graphic artist who suggested what is
center. Its blue, yellow, and green now the current design. In this, the
stripes were derived from the “V” formed by the diamonds stands
common colors of the flags assigned for St. Vincent, and the diamonds
to the Associated States by the represent its local sobriquet the
College of Arms. The breadfruit “Gems of the Antilles.”
recalled the British introduction of
the breadfruit tree into the ARMS OF ST. VINCENT
Caribbean from the South Seas. The coat of arms was first introduced
Although this first flag was in 1912. It depicts two women, one
designed by a local islander, the standing holding an olive branch, the
design did not please all the people of other kneeling to represent peace and
St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and, justice, which is the national motto—
in 1985, moves were made to secure “Pax, Justitia.” This appears on a
a new design. scroll at the base.
37
North America
Barbados
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 30, 1966 Usage: National and Civil
Blue represents
the sea
North America
St. Vincent
& The
Barbados was first settled by the British in 1627. It
Grenadines
became a colony and achieved self-government in
1961 and independence in 1966.
The current flag was adopted at the ARMS OF BARBADOS
time of independence. It was the The coat of arms was granted by
winning design in a national HM Queen Elizabeth II in 1966,
competition, won by Grantley on a visit to the island. The shield
Prescod, a local art teacher. depicts a bearded fig tree, after which
the island takes its name, between two
THE SYMBOLISM OF THE FLAG “Pride of Barbados” flowers. The crest
Prescod interpreted the stripes as is an arm holding two sugarcanes in
representing the blue seas and the the form of a St. Andrew’s Cross. This
golden sands which surround the commemorates independence, which
island. The trident is adapted from the was achieved on St. Andrew’s Day,
previous flag-badge which depicted November 30, in 1966.
Britannia holding a trident (symbolic Barbados also has a Governor’s
of her rule over the seas). Here the standard. It is the same as that of the
trident is without a shaft, indicating a Governor of St. Lucia, which features
break with the colonial past. It is also the Royal Crest of England with
the emblem of the sea god, Neptune, British lion (see page 36), except that it
and reflects the importance of the bears the title “Barbados” on the scroll
sea to Barbados. beneath the Royal Crest.
38
North America
Grenada
Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: February 7, 1974 Usage: National and Civil
A nutmeg,
Grenada’s most
famous product The central star
and disc represent
the capital
St. George’s
North America
St. Vincent &
The Grenadines First settled by France, Grenada was invaded by
Britain in 1762. It became an Associated State in
1967 and fully independent in 1974.
The flag used prior to independence agriculture. When the flag is used
in 1967 also featured a nutmeg, at sea its proportions are altered from
since Grenada is a major world 3:5 to a longer form (1:2).
supplier of this commodity, and is
known as the “Spice Island.” THE NATIONAL ARMS
Other features of the flag derive The coat of arms depicts the
from the coat of arms granted on Santa Maria, Columbus’ ship,
December 6, 1973, including the a lion representing national liberty,
red, yellow, and green colors. and a lily emblem symbolizing
the Virgin Mary. The shield is
SYMBOLISM OF THE FLAG supported by two characteristic local
The yellow star on a red disc stands creatures, an armadillo and a ramier
for the Borough of St. George’s, pigeon. Beneath the shield is a
Grenada’s capital, and the other six representation of the Grand Etang
stars for the remaining six parishes. lake, and, on a scroll at the base,
In the official interpretation the what must be one of the world’s
red stands for courage and vitality, longest national mottos: “Ever
the yellow for wisdom and warmth, conscious of God we aspire, build
and the green for vegetation and and advance as one people.”
39
North America
White represents
the sea
Black symbolizes
the strength of
the people
North America
'RENADA
42).)$!$
Trinidad and Tobago were separate British
colonies, which united in 1889. They became
independent in 1962 and a republic in 1976.
The flag adopted at independence of arms depicts the three ships of
was chosen from among designs sent Columbus who landed here in 1498.
in by the public. The same colors are Above the ships are two golden
used in the arms. hummingbirds. The supporters of the
A flag for HM Queen Elizabeth II coat of arms are also local birds and
was adopted after independence, the whole shield stands on a scene
but it became obsolete following the depicting waves breaking against
formation of the republic. the rocky coasts of the islands.
The President has a flag of blue Trinidad also has flags for the
with the arms in the center. The coat Prime Minister and other ministers.
40
South America
Colombia
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: December 17, 1819 Usage: National
Yellow recalls
the federation of
Greater Colombia
South America
0AANAMA
0ANAMA
0ANAMA
Following years of Spanish rule, Colombia
#/,/-"
-"
" )!
%CUADO
DO
DOR
became part of independent Greater Colombia in
0ERU 1819, and then a separate republic in 1830.
The flag of Greater Colombia, used to distinguish it from the flag
adopted in 1819, was retained by of Ecuador. The state flag and naval
Colombia after independence in 1830. ensign have the arms in the center.
For a while the stripes were arranged
vertically, but the original version THE NATIONAL ARMS
was restored in 1861. The coat of arms dates from 1834.
There are two variant flags. The It includes a pomegranate, the
civil ensign has a red-bordered, blue symbol of Granada in Spain, after
oval bearing a white star in the center, which the area was once named.
41
South America
Venezuela
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: March 10, 2006 Usage: National and Civil
Red symbolizes
courage
Blue represents Venezuela’s
independence from Spain
South America
6%.%:5%,!
6 % Venezuela was once part of the Spanish province
'UYANA
#OLOMBIA
of New Granada. It then joined Greater Colombia
"RAZIL
ZIL
from 1819 until independence in 1830.
The Venezuelan flag was the double width, for use as the flag
invention of Francisco de Miranda, of Greater Colombia.
who initiated the freedom of After independence in 1836,
New Granada in 1806. At that time the flag reverted to stripes of
it had no stars; they were added in equal width and the stars were
1836 to symbolize the provinces added. The coat of arms dates
that had supported the Declaration from the 19th century but has
of Independence in 1811. The altered frequently, especially the
original plain tricolor was altered inscription. The present form dates
in 1819, to make the yellow from 2006.
ARMS OF VENEZUELA
Two horns of plenty
The wheatsheaf symbolize abundance
represents fertility
The flag and weapons
A running horse represent independence and
symbolizes liberty the Native American people
42
South America
Guyana
Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: May 20, 1966 Usage: National and Civil
South America
Venezuela Guyana was acquired by the UK in 1814. It
GUYANA
UYANA
NAA
S
Suriname
am became independent in 1966 and a republic within
Brazil
the Commonwealth in 1970.
The flag is known as the “Golden “zeal and dynamism [of the
Arrow” because of the arrow-head inhabitants] in building the nation.”
that flies across the green field. The
original design had a red field, but THE PRESIDENT’S STANDARD
T
this was altered by the College of Adopted in 1970, it is a banner of the
Arms in 1966, which also added the arms granted in 1966. It depicts a green
black and white fimbriations. shield in the center charged with an
The green and yellow stand for Native American crown in gold, a
natural resources and the red for the Victoria lily and a native pheasant.
THE PRESIDENT’S
STANDARD
T
The President’s flag
was adopted in 1970, A Victoria Regia
it is a square banner water lily, growing from
of the arms stylized heraldic water
Crown of a cacique, or
Native American chief A native canje pheasant
43
South America
Suriname
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 25, 1975 Usage: National and Civil
South America
'UYANA
YAN
&RENCH
'UIANA
Suriname was part of the Dutch kingdom until
352).!-%
3 2).!- 1975. Since independence, there have been a series
"RAZIL
of coups and changes of constitution.
The flag was chosen in 1975 by a separating the red and green, stand
parliamentary commission, on the for justice and freedom.
basis of designs sent in by the
public. The object was to choose a THE PRESIDENT’S STANDARD
T
flag which harmonized the colors of This has a white panel in place of
the main political groups (green and the star and contains the state arms.
red) into a design suggestive of unity The coat of arms dates back to the
and progress. The star is thus the 17th century and the time of Dutch
emblem of unity and hope for the rule, but was revised in 1959 and
future, and the white fimbriations, again in 1975.
THE PRESIDENT’S
STANDARD
T
On the shield, a ship The supporters
reflects commerce, a are Native Americans
diamond, mining, and a
tree, agriculture The national motto—
“Justitia, Pietas, Fides”
meaning “Justice, Peace,
Faith”
44
South America
Ecuador
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: September 26, 1860 Usage: National
Red symbolizes
courage
South America
%#5!$/ /2
#OLOMBIA
Ecuador, formerly a Spanish colony, joined the
'ALAPAGOS
P G
)SLANDS state of Greater Colombia in 1822. It seceded from
0ERU "RAZIL
the federation in 1830 to form a republic.
The 1819 flag of Greater Colombia arms, making it almost identical to
was restored in Ecuador in 1860 and the flag of Colombia, except for its
since then the flags of Ecuador and proportions. When used abroad, the
Colombia have been very similar. flag always contains the arms.
The national arms were added to the
center of the basic civil flag in 1900, ARMS OF ECUADOR
creating a distinct flag for national The coat of arms dates from 1845
and state purposes. The civil flag on and depicts Mount Chimborazo
land and sea does not contain the and the mouth of the Guyas River.
ARMS OF ECUADOR
An Andean condor
symbolizes bravery
Four signs of the Zodiac and liberty
represent the months from
March to May A ship at the mouth
of the Guyas River
representing commerce
An allegorical scene depicts
Mount Chimborazo, South The ax and fasces are
America’s highest peak symbols of republicanism
45
South America
Peru
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: February 25, 1825 Usage: National and Civil
South America
%CUADORR #OLOMBIA Peru was freed from Spanish rule in 1819 by an
0%
%25
% 5 "RAZIL
army led by José de San Martín. Since 1824 it has
#HILE "OLIVIA
IA
been an independent unitary republic.
The colors chosen by San Martín for Spanish colonies, the official flag,
the Peruvian Legion were red and used by the government and the
white, said to be the colors of the armed forces, has the coat of arms in
Inca Empire, and the rising sun, also the center.
dating back to the Incas. The flag The coat of arms dates from 1825
assumed its present form, dropping and depicts a cornucopia, a chichona
the sun in 1825, at the behest of tree, and a llama, surrounded by state
Simón Bolívar, another famous flags. The flags do not appear on the
liberator. As is usual in former arms placed on the official flag.
ARMS OF PERU
46
South America
Brazil
Ratio: 7:10 Adopted: November 15, 1889 Usage: National and Civil
South America
6ENEZUELA
6EN
EN
N
Brazil belonged to Portugal until 1822 when it
"2!:),
became an independent kingdom, and later an
0ARAGUAY
empire. It formed a federal republic in 1889.
The green field and yellow lozenge with stars of varying sizes, although
were part of the flag adopted in the size of star does not reflect the
1822 when independence was first importance of the state. In 1992,
achieved and the empire was new stars were added to the
declared. In 1889, the imperial constellation of Canis Majorr in the
arms were replaced by a view of lower left section of the sky. The
the night sky as it appeared over country’s national motto, “Ordem
Rio de Janeiro when the republic e Progresso” meaning, “Order and
was formed. Each of the stars in Progress” appears on a band across
the constellation represents a state the center of the night sky.
of the Federation, including the
Federal District. These have been THE NATIONAL CAPITAL
T
altered from time to time, most In Brasília, the capital city since
recently in 1992 when the number 1960, stands one of the world’s
of stars increased to 27. tallest flagpoles, on which flies an
enormous national flag.
THE CONSTELLATIONS Brazil also has flags for the
The constellations on the flag are President, the Ministry of Marine,
represented in a realistic manner, and a naval Jack.
47
South America
The flag of the Federal District dates from Adopted by the republic declared in 1899,
1969. The green rectangle contains four when Acre was still part of Bolivia, the flag
arrows representing the balance of was retained by the state and the star was
centralization and devolution in Brazil. dded to recall its joining the Federation.
ALAGOAS AMAPÁ
1889 1989
Based on the flag of 1894, this new The flag was adopted in 1984 for the
version was instituted in 1963. In the erritory and retained for the state. It
center is the arms, also originally dating ses all the national colors, together
back to 1894. It recalls various aspects of with an outline of the fortress of
the state’s industry. Macapá, the state capital.
AMAZONAS BAHIA
1889 1889
The flag dates from the local uprising of The flag dates back to the uprisings of
1897. The stars stand for the 25 789 and 1798, which are recalled by
municipalities, with the large one for he white triangle. The flag in this form
Manaus, the state capital. The flag was was first adopted in 1889, when Bahia
regularized in 1982. oined the Federation.
The flag was instituted in 1922 and is The flag was created in 1947. The
very similar to the national flag. The ortuguese motto meaning—“Work
arms depicts an allegorical landscape nd Trust”—is that of the Jesuits, and
surrounded by stars. It dates from 1897 he pink and blue represent the local
and was revised in 1967. vening sky.
48
South America
GOIÁS MARANHÃO
1889 1889
The flag is based on those promoted for The flag, adopted in 1889, features
the republic in 1889. This version has he star, which represents the state
five stars for the Southern Cross similar n the national flag, while the stripes
to those in the national arms. and for its ethnic mix.
The flag is based on the national flag, The design emerged from a
but with local interpretations of the ompetition held in 1978, after the
color arrangement and one star for ew state was formed. The flag was
the state. It was adopted in 1890. nstituted in 1979.
PARAÍBA PARANÁ
1889 1889
The flag recalls Vargas’ revolution in The flag contains an emblem like
1930. Nego (“I deny it”) refers to the he national flag, bearing the Southern
assassination of the state president. Cross and name of the state.
PERNAMBUCO PIAUÍ
1889 1889
This is the flag of the Pernambuco ased on the colors of the national
revolution of 1817, which later became the ag, in this instance it only has one
flag of the state when the events of 1817 ar representing the state of Piauí.
were celebrated. t was adopted in 1922.
49
South America
The state was reconstituted in 1975 Dating from 1957, the flag uses the
to include the state of Guanabara. rms granted in 1909, thus making it
The new state took over the emblems ne of the newest flags of the
of the former state of Rio de Janeiro. riginal states.
The flag dates from the revolution of Rondônia’s flag uses the four
1836, which created the Republic of Rio ational colors and a single star
Grande do Sul. It was re-adopted in 1889, ymbol. It was adopted in 1981
the arms were added in 1891. fter a design competition.
The flag, adopted when the territory The red and white flag precedes
became a federal state, uses the national he republic. It was most recently
colors and star, with a red line representing egularized in 1953, when the arms
the Equator. were placed in the center.
The flag was created in 1888 at the The flag was created in the late
start of the republican revolution, 9th century and adopted in 1920.
and revived in 1932, with 13 stripes. n 1951 the stars were repositioned.
TOCANTINS
1989
50
South America
Chile
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 18, 1817 Usage: National and Civil
South America
"OLIVIA Chile was freed from Spanish rule in 1818, largely
#(),% 5RUGUAY
!R
!RGENTINA
through the efforts of José de San Martín, leader of
the Army of the Andes.
Adopted in 1817, after San Martín’s THE PRESIDENT’S STANDARD
T
victory at Chacabuco, the national The flag of the President is the
flag of Chile was preceded by at least same as the national flag, with the
two other versions during the early national arms in the center. The coat
years of separatism. The current flag of arms dates from 1834. It is
was based on the Stars and Stripes. supported by an huemal deer and a
The white star was reserved for condor. The crest is formed from
use only on the official flag until the feathers of the rhea bird. The
1864, when the starred flag was motto—“Por La Razon o La Fuerza”
made official for all purposes. means “By reason or by force.”
THE PRESIDENT’S
STANDARD
T
A crest of feathers
An huemal deer, from the rhea bird
of the high Andes
The condor is a common
symbol on South
American arms
51
South America
Bolivia
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 30, 1851 Usage: National and Civil
Green symbolizes
fertility
South America
52
South America
Paraguay
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: November 25, 1842 Usage: National and Civil
South America
"OLIVIA
"RAZIL
Paraguay declared its independence from
0!2!'5!9
!2!'5! Spain in 1811 and has remained an independent
!RGENTINA
republic ever since.
The colors of the flag and the power from 1814–40. During his
Star of May emblem date from regime one side of the flag carried
the Declaration of Independence. the arms of Spain and the other the
A number of variant designs existed arms of Asunción.
prior to the current design, which The current emblems, adopted in
was regularized in 1842. The 1821, but not officially sanctioned
current flag has a separate emblem until 1842, are the national arms on
on each side, a practice dating from the front (obverse) and the Treasury
the time of José de Francia, in Seal on the back (reverse).
Name of
the state
53
South America
Uruguay
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: July 11, 1830 Usage: National and Civil
South America
"RAZIL Historically a Spanish colony, Uruguay was
525'
5'
'5!9
' annexed to Brazil and then to Argentina before
!RGENTINA
becoming fully independent in 1830.
The colors, blue and white, and the remained in use after Uruguay was
Sun of May on the current flag come annexed to Brazil in 1821.
from the Argentinian flag. When full independence was
assumed, the present form of the
THE FLAG OF ARTIGAS flag was instituted. The nine stripes
The colors were brought to Uruguay represent the nine departments.
by José Artigas, who led the The Sun of May has been used as
movement for separation. His flag the national emblem since 1815 and
was blue and white striped, with a now appears as the crest on the coat
red diagonal. Variations of this flag of arms.
FLAG OF ARTIGAS
This flag was used as Red represents the
a Jack for naval vessels “Banda Oriental ”
until the late 1990s. (the “East Bank”)
The colors derive from of Uruguay
those of Argentina’s flag
54
South America
Argentina
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: February 12, 1812 Usage: National and Civil
Blue and
white were
formed
into a flag The sun was
by Manuel added in 1818
Belgrano, the to create a flag
leader of the for state use
revolution
South America
"RAZ
RAZIL
RAZ
"OLIVIA
0ARAGUAY Argentina achieved its independence from Spain
5RR
5RUGUAY
5
!2
2'%.4).!
2 in 1816. Liberation demonstrations began in Buenos
Aires on May 25, 1810.
At his encampment at Rosario in THE SUN FLAG
1812, the revolutionary commander, In 1818, the sun emblem was added
Manuel Belgrano needed a flag. He to the national flag forming the state
devised one, using the sky-blue and flag flown on government buildings
white colors of the cockades worn by and military bases. It is also the
supporters of independence. This flag Argentine naval ensign. The sun is
was used in battle and. although based on coins issued in Buenos Aires
initially rejected by the provisional in 1813. The tradition of the “Sun of
government, it later became the May,” breaking through white clouds
national flag. in a blue sky has no historical basis.
ARMS OF ARGENTINA
The sun symbolizes
the dawn of a new era
and a new nation
The Cap of Liberty
55
Africa
Morocco
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 17, 1915 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
Spain
MOROCC
CC
CCO
Morocco has been independent since 1956,
Western
rn
Sahara
ra
Algeria becoming a kingdom in 1957. The state has
Mauuritania Mali
urit
uri lii
occupied Western Sahara since 1975.
Red has considerable historic THE COLONIAL ERA
significance in Morocco, proclaiming While Morocco was under French
the descent of the royal family from and Spanish control, the red flag with
the Prophet Muhammad via Fatima, the seal in the center remained in use
the wife of Ali, the fourth Caliph. but only inland, its use at sea was
Red is also the color that was used prohibited. When independence was
by the Sherifs of Mecca and the restored in 1956 it once again became
Imams of Yemen. the national flag.
56
Africa
Algeria
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: July 3, 1962 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
-ORO
RO
ROCCO
4U
4UNISIA
Algeria was occupied by the French from 1830.
7ESTER
3AHA
ERN
ER
HAARAA
N
! ,'%2)! ,IBYA
Independence was achieved in 1962 after a long
-AU
URITANIA
IT -ALII . GER
.IGER
struggle led by the National Liberation Front.
The flag of Algeria was adopted whole emblem recalls the period
by the National Liberation Front of Ottoman rule during the 16th
(Front de Libération National) in century and its color, red, is symbolic
1954, on the basis of an older design, of liberty.
created in 1928, by the nationalist
leader Messali Hadj. From 1958-62 THE NAVAL ENSIGN
it was the flag of the Provisional The naval ensign has two crossed
Government in exile, but it was anchors in the canton. This device
retained when independence was is used on the naval ensigns of
achieved in 1962 and has remained several Arab countries, following
unchanged ever since. the example of Egypt.
57
Africa
Tunisia
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: 1835 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
I
Italy
Part of the Turkish Empire until 1881, Tunisia
TUN
UNISIA
UN
N
Algeria then became a French Protectorate. In 1957, it
Libya
became a republic when the “Bey” was deposed.
The flag is based on that of the The coat of arms of Tunisia has
Turkish Empire and was adopted by been altered since the abolition of
the “Bey,” the hereditary ruler of the monarchy, most recently in 1963,
Tunisia, in 1835, primarily as a and unusually has the motto on a
military flag. During the French scroll actually on the shield. The
administration (1881-1957) it became motto reads—in Arabic—“Order,
a sea flag, with the French Tricolore in Liberty, Justice.” The ship, lion, and
the canton; this was removed when balance were retained from the
independence was achieved in 1956. previous arms.
ARMS OF TUNISIA
58
Africa
Libya
Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: 1977 Usage: National and Civil
It is the only
national flag of a
single plain color
Green is the
national color
of Libya and also
reflects the people’s
devotion to Islam
Africa
ARMS OF LIBYA
Y
59
Africa
Egypt
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 4, 1984 Usage: National and Civil
Eagle of Saladin
Africa
Israel
r Jordan
rda
Egypt was a kingdom until 1953. From 1958-1961
Saudi
Libya
EGYPT Arabia it joined the United Arab Republic and from 1972-
1977 the Federation of Arab Republics.
As a kingdom, the flag was green stars in the center of the white stripe.
with a white crescent and three stars. In 1972, when the Federation was
formed, the stars were replaced with
THE UNITED ARAB REPUBLIC the Hawk of the Quraish (see page
When the United Arab Republic 59), in gold, above the state name.
(uar) was formed in 1958, they In 1984, Egypt reverted to the gold
adapted the flag of the Liberation eagle used by the Liberation Rally.
Rally which led the independence These colors and the eagle emblem
revolt of 1952—53. The uar flag was have been widely copied in other
red, white and black, with two green Arab countries.
60
Africa
Sudan
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: May 20, 1970 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
Libya
ya Egy
ypt
yp Ruled jointly by Egypt and Britain from 1877,
Chad
d
Sudan became independent in 1956. Since then it
has had a series of different regimes.
The flag used at independence White represents purity and
was a horizontal tricolor of blue, optimism; red is for socialism, green
yellow and green, but following for prosperity, and black for the dark,
the formation of the Democratic pre-Islamic past.
Republic in 1968, a new flag was In 1969 a new arms was adopted,
chosen by competition. with a secretary bird bearing a shield
from the time of the Mahdi, (who
A PAN-ARAB FLAG briefly ruled Sudan in the 19th
This is like other Arab flags. The century). Two scrolls are placed
green as a triangle at the hoist. above and below the secretary bird.
A secretary bird
bears the shield
The title of the state—
“Al-Jamhuriya as-Sudaniya”
(“Republic of Sudan”)
61
Africa
Eritrea
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: May 24, 1993 Usage: National and Civil
Green, blue,
An olive branch and red are the
is encircled by a colors of the
wreath representing Eritrean People’s
Eritrean autonomy Liberation Front
Africa
Saudi
Sudan Arabia
Ar Eritrea was federated to Ethiopia in 1952 and fully
ERIT
TREA
T
Yemen
integrated in 1962. From 1972, a long war of
Ethiopia
secession led to independence in 1993.
The flag of the Eritrean People’s olive leaves. Originally this emblem
Liberation Front (eplf), which was green on a blue flag, but it is now
campaigned for independence, is yellow.
green and blue with a red triangle
bearing a gold star. The flag adopted THE PRESIDENT’S FLAG
on independence retained the colors The President’s flag contains the
and pattern, but replaced the star national arms, which depicts a
with the emblem used previously for camel in a desert, with the name
autonomous Eritrea. This is an olive of the state underneath in English,
branch surrounded by a wreath of Tigrinya, and Arabic.
The arms is
surrounded by a
wreath of leaves
62
Africa
Djibouti
Ratio: 21:38 Adopted: June 27, 1977 Usage: National and Civil
Green represents
the Afar people,
with their land
and links to Islam
Africa
Eritrea
ea
Yemen Once known as French Somaliland, and from 1967
DJIBOUTI
as the Territory of the Afars and Issas, Djibouti
Ethiopia Somalia
gained independence in 1977.
The national flag adopted in 1977 position, and the proportions of the
was an adaptation of the flag of flag were lengthened. The colors
the Ligue Populaire Africaine pour stand for the Issas and the Afars,
l’Indépendance (lpai) which led the two peoples of Djibouti at
Djibouti to independence. The lpai independence, and the red star
flag had a red triangle with a white for the unity of the diverse state.
star. For the national flag, adopted The coat of arms is centered
at independence, the star was placed around a Somali shield and spear,
in an upright, rather than a slanted bordered by two hunting knives.
ARMS OF DJIBOUTI
The red star is a
traditional symbol of unity
A Somali shield and
weapons; two hunting
knives and a spear The coat of arms
contains a local shield
63
Africa
Ethiopia
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: February 6, 1996 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
Sudan
Eri
ritrea
rit
Djibout
Djibouti
Ethiopia was recognized as an empire in the
ETHIOPIA 19th century. It was occupied by Italy from 1936–41.
lia
ma
Kenya
The Emperor was overthrown in 1974.
So
EMBLEM OF ETHIOPIA
Blue represents
peace
The star represents
diversity and unity
The sun’s rays
symbolize prosperity
64
Africa
Somalia
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 12, 1954 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
Djibouti
ib
Ethiopia
Modern Somalia is a combination of the former
SO
SOMALIA Italian territory and British Somaliland. Since 1991
it has been in a state of civil war.
The flag was adopted by the Italian including those living in Ethiopia,
Trusteeship Territory in 1954 on Djibouti, and Kenya.
the basis of the blue and white flag
of the United Nations, which was ARMS OF SOMALIA
supervising the territory at the The coat of arms was adopted in
time. It was retained when Somalia 1956. The leopards which support
became independent in 1960. The the shield and the white star were
five-pointed star is said to stand for also found on the arms used during
the five branches of the Somali race the Italian administration.
ARMS OF SOMALIA
The shield is
based on the
national flag The supporters are
leopards; a leopard also
featured on the shield
Below the shield are
of the colonial arms
two palm branches
and two spears
65
Africa
Uganda
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 9, 1962 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
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3UDAN
Since independence in 1962, Uganda has suffered
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years of upheaval. Under the current regime some
2WANDA
stability has been restored.
The dominant party at the time of coat of arms granted on
independence was the Uganda September 3, 1962. The arms depicts
People’s Congress (upc), and the a local shield, in an allegorical
new national flag was an adaptation landscape with tea and cotton plants.
of its tricolor with the addition of the
crane badge in the center. This dates THE PRESIDENT’S STANDARD
T
back to before independence when The flag for the President was
the colonial badge of Uganda was the adopted in 1963 and consists of the
great crested crane. It also appears as arms on a red field with the national
one of the supporters on Uganda’s colors along the lower edge.
THE PRESIDENT’S
STANDARD
T
66
Africa
Kenya
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: December 12, 1963 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
Sud
Su
Sudan Ethiopia
Kenya became a colony in 1920 having previously
a
ali
Uga
ga
ganda
m
KENYA So
been known as British East Africa. It became
Tanzania
independent in 1963 and a republic in 1964.
The flag adopted at independence shield and spears, but with a white
was based on that of the Kenya rooster in the center, grasping an ax.
Africa National Union (kanu); Kenya was the first African
the dominant political party. For country to use a shield of traditional
the national flag, white fimbriations design in its coat of arms, a practice
were added, and the shield and which has since been followed in
spears replaced the party symbol. many other new states. It was also
A coat of arms was adopted in the first to give the motto in a local
1963 which makes use of the same language, in this case Swahili.
ARMS OF KENYA
Y
“Harambee” meaning
“Pull Together” in Swahili
67
Africa
Rwanda
Ratio: 6:13 Adopted: December 31, 2001 Usage: National and Civil
Light blue
stands for
The Golden Sun
the hope of
symbolizes the
happiness
enlightenment
and peace
that will bring
unity and fight
ignorance
Africa
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ANDA
,AKE
Rwanda, originally part of German East Africa,
27! $! 6ICTO
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IA
was taken over by Belgium after the First World
"URUNDI 4ANZANIA
War. It became independent on July 1, 1962.
In 2001 Rwanda adopted a new red and black, which have often
national flag, national arms and a been associated with blood and
national anthem, in response to the mourning respectively, were
government’s desire to concentrate removed, in favor of the more
on future possibilities rather than the optimistic blue, yellow, and green.
troubled past. It was decided that the The new national symbols of
old national symbols reinforced the Rwanda signify national unity,
ideas of ethnic separatism and respect for work, patriotism, and
violence which eventually led to the confidence in the future.
genocide of 1994. For the new flag,
ARMS OF RWANDA
68
Africa
Burundi
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: June 28, 1967 Usage: National and Civil
Green
represents hope
The three stars
represent the three
White signifies peace ethnic groups, the
Tutsi, Hutu,
and Twa
Red is symbolic of blood shed in
the struggle for independence
Africa
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ANDA
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Like Rwanda, Burundi was a German, then a
2WANDA
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Belgian territory. It achieved independence as a
4ANZANIA
kingdom in 1962 and became a republic in 1966.
The flag adopted at independence THE NATIONAL ARMS
had a drum—symbolic of the The coat of arms has also been
monarchy—and a sorghum plant in altered. The royal drum which was
the central disc. When the kingdom above the shield was removed, a
was abolished the drum was more republican motto was adopted,
removed, and a year later the and the four spears were reduced to
sorghum plant was replaced by the three, again to represent the ethnic
three stars, said to symbolize the groups. The golden lion’s face also
main ethnic groups. featured on the royal badge.
ARMS OF BURUNDI
Three spears represent
The lion’s face has Burundi’s ethnic groups
remained unchanged since
the original 1962 arms
69
Africa
Africa
Chad
Sudan Previously known as Ubangui-Shari, the Central
CE
CENTRAL
AFRICAN
FRICAN REPUBL
REPUBLIC African Republic was formed as an autonomous
Cameroon Dem. Rep.
Congo
state in 1958 under French protection.
The flag is unique in that it combines under the Emperor Bokassa from
the Pan-African colors with those of 1976-79, but no change was made to
France, the former colonial power. the national symbols.
This was done in the hope that The coat of arms is intended to
neighboring states would join a symbolize both the Central African
federation under French protection, Republic and its important position in
but this never materialized; the star the center of Africa. The upper scroll
represents the hope of achieving this bears the motto of the former ruling
goal. The state became an empire party; it means “A Man is a Man.”
70
Africa
Africa
CAR
DEM. REP
REP.
The Democratic Republic of Congo was originally
CONGOO
Congo
goo
the Congo Free State (1880). In 1908 it became the
An
ngola Zam
Zambia
Belgian Congo and gained independence in 1960.
The flag of the Dem. Rep. of Congo provinces. In 1964 the design
is like the design used 1964-1971. changed to one like the present flag.
The flag of the Congo Free State In 1971, the name of the country
was blue, with a central gold star. changed to Zaïre, and the flag was
Under Belgian rule this flag based on that of the ruling party.
remained, beside the Belgian flag. At In 1997 the 1960 flag was restored,
independence in 1960, six stars were but replaced by the present design
added down the hoist for the then six in 2006.
71
Africa
Niger
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 23, 1959 Usage: National and Civil
White represents
the River Niger
Africa
Algeria Lib
Libya
Niger was originally a province of French West
Mali
NIGER
Chad
Africa. In 1958 it joined the Sahel-Benin Union,
B kina
Burkina Ni i
Nigeria
achieving full independence in 1960.
The flag was designed in 1958 with rain forest, whilst the white strip
that of the Ivory Coast, with which stands for the Niger River, and the
Niger was in alliance, along with orange disc for the sun. The flag was
Chad and Dahomey (modern Benin). retained on independence and has
This alliance came to nothing, but remained unchanged ever since.
flags were adopted which indicated Four flags appear on the arms of
their common interest. In the case of Niger, surrounding a green shield.
Niger, the orange is said to stand for On the shield are weapons, the sun,
the savannah and the green for the a corncob, and a buffalo’s head.
ARMS OF NIGER
Weapons represent
military achievements Corn represents the
country’s agriculture
72
Africa
Chad
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 6, 1959 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
,I
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Chad became an autonomous republic in 1958 and
.IGER
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Dahomey in the informal Sahel-Benin Union.
The flag is a combination of the THE NATIONAL ARMS
Pan-African colors popularized by The coat of arms dates from 1970,
Ghana, and those of the French although Chad also has a seal (like
Tricolore, on which it is closely many former French colonies),
modeled. It was adopted for the adopted in 1959. The arms is in the
autonomous republic and retained on colors of the national flag and is
independence in 1960. Despite many supported by a lion and a wild goat.
upheavals since independence the flag The medal below the shield is the
has not been changed. badge of the National Order of Chad.
ARMS OF CHAD
The wavy bars
symbolize Lake Chad
The red symbol is for
salt, the country’s The lion is symbolic of
main mineral the south of the country
A mountain goat The national motto—
represents the “Unité, Travail,
north of Chad Progrès” (“Unity,
Work, Progress”)
73
Africa
Mauritania
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: April 1, 1959 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
7ESTER
ERRN
3AHAARA
R
!LGERIA Mauritania became fully independent from France
-!
!
!52)4!. )! in 1960. From 1976-79 it occupied part of Western
-ALI
3ENEG
EGALL
EG
Sahara; now occupied by Morocco.
The flag was adopted in 1959 for the represents a real seal, used for
autonomous republic. It consists certifying documents.
simply of a yellow crescent and star It bears the title of the state around
of Islam on a green field, expressive the edge. In the center are the
of the country’s full title—“The Islamic crescent and star emblems.
Mauritanian Islamic Republic.” These are decorated with a palm
Mauritania also has a seal, like branch and a millet plant, both
those used in many former French important national plants. The seal
colonies. It is uncolored and was adopted for Mauritania in 1960.
SEAL OF MAURITANIA
74
Africa
Mali
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: March 1, 1961 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
!LGERIA Mali achieved independence from France in
-AU
AU
URITANIA
3ENEG
EGAL
EG
G
confederation with Senegal on June 20, 1960, but
'UI
UINEA
UI
UIN
IIN
split away later the same year to form a republic.
The flag adopted in 1959 for the 1960, the flag was kept for use in
Confederation was an imitation of Mali until March 1, 1961, when the
the flag of Ghana, but following the black figure was dropped.
style of the French Tricolore. It was Mali also has a seal, like those of
charged with a black emblem known other former French colonies. It is
as a kanaga, a stylized human figure. uncolored and displays a local fortress
The colors were intended to reflect a between two bows and arrows.
unity with other African nations. Above the fortress is a dove of peace
After the two countries split up in and below it is a rising sun.
SEAL OF MALI
75
Africa
Senegal
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: September 1960 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
-AURITANIA
Senegal achieved independence from France in
3%.%
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'AMBIA -ALI federation with Mali in June 1960. The Federation
'UINEA "ISSAU
SAU
'
'UINEA
lasted until August 1960.
The original flag for the Federation kanaga emblem on the original
with Mali was adopted on April 4, Federation flag to a green star. This
1959. It remained in use in Mali has remained the flag ever since.
until March 1961. The coat of arms was designed by
a French heraldist in 1965. It depicts
A NEW NATIONAL FLAG a rampant lion and a baobab tree—
After the breakup of the Federation emblems which had appeared on
in 1960, Senegal adopted a new earlier badges of Senegal. The medal
national flag; changing the black is the star of the National Order.
ARMS OF SENEGAL
The star is the same as
The lion and baobab tree on the national flag
appeared on previous arms
76
Africa
Gambia
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: February 18, 1965 Usage: National and Civil
Red represents
the savannah
grasslands
Green symbolizes
the forests
Africa
3EN
EN
ENEGAL
-AURITANIA
The Gambia became self-governing in 1963 and
'!-")!
! -ALI
fully independent of Britain on February 18, 1965.
'
'UINEA
'UINEA "ISSAU
It became a republic on April 24, 1970.
The flag of Gambia has no political colonial badge of the Gambia and
basis. The blue stripe of the flag is follows traditional heraldry. The
said to represent the River Gambia two tools represent the main ethnic
flowing between the green forest and groups—the Mandinka and the
the red savannah. It was adopted at Fulani—and the crest, above the
independence in 1965. helmet, is a local oil palm.
The coat of arms was granted The federation formed with
before independence, in 1964. It Senegal from 1981—1989 had no
makes no reference to the previous effect on the national symbols.
ARMS OF GAMBIA
A crest of oil
palm leaves
The supporters are two
lions, shown holding tools
77
Africa
Cape Verde
Ratio: 10:17 Adopted: February 25, 1992 Usage: National and Civil
78
Africa
Guinea-Bissau
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: September 24, 1973 Usage: National and Civil
Yellow stands
The black star for the sun
represents the
unity of Africa
Green
represents hope
Africa
3
3ENEGAL
-ALI
Guinea-Bissau is so-called to distinguish it from
'5).%!!
")33!5
the former French Guinea. Formerly a territory of
Portugal, it achieved self-government in 1973.
Like the former flag of Cape Verde, pan-African combination of red,
the flag is based on that of the Partido yellow, green, and black in 1957.
Africano para a Independencia da Guiné In the Ghanaian view, the black star
e Cabo Verde (paigc), still the stands for the unity of Africa. The
dominant party in Guinea-Bissau. colors are now said to stand for the
blood shed for independence, hope,
THE GHANAIAN INFLUENCE and the sun, as the source of life.
The party flag was derived from The coat of arms is the paigc
that of Ghana, which first used the badge, a black star and a scallop shell.
ARMS OF GUINEA-BISSAU
79
Africa
Guinea
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 10, 1958 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
3ENEGALL
-ALI
In 1958, Guinea became the first territory in
'UINEA ' 5).%!
"ISSAU
!
)VORY
former French West Africa to gain independence
3IERRA ,EO
EONE
EO
#OAST
without first becoming an autonomous republic.
The colors of the f lag were adapted associate of Kwame Nkrumah, the
from those of the Rassemblement former dictator of Ghana.
Démocratique Africaine, the dominant
movement at the time of ARMS OF GUINEA
independence. Their colors were in The coat of arms has been altered
turn derived from those of Ghana, since the fall of Sekou Touré. The
which had f irst adopted them in elephant’s head was dropped and it
1957. Sekou Touré, the f irst now portrays a dove above an olive
President of Guinea, was a close branch and crossed weapons.
80
Africa
Sierra Leone
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: April 27, 1961 Usage: National and Civil
Green represents
the agricultural and
White stands natural resources of
for justice the country
Africa
'UINEA
Sierra Leone was founded as a home for freed
3)%22!
,%/.%
)VORY
#OAST slaves in 1787, but became a British colony in 1808.
,IBERI
BERI
ERIA
ERI
It achieved independence in 1961.
The arms and flag of Sierra Leone base are wavy bars depicting the sea.
were devised by the College of Arms The supporters are lions, similar to
and granted in 1960. those on the colonial badge.
The three main colors from the
ARMS OF SIERRA
A LEONE shield—green, white and blue—were
The shield depicts a lion beneath used to form the flag. They represent
a zigzag border, representing the Lion agricultural and natural resources in
Mountains after which the territory green, unity and justice in white, and
was named, and three torches. At the blue for the harbor at Freetown.
81
Africa
Liberia
Ratio: 10:19 Adopted: July 26, 1847 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
,EON
R '
3IEEERRA
ONE
ON
'UINEAA
)VORY
Liberia was founded in 1816 by the American
#OAST
,)"%2)!
!
Colonization Society as a home for freed slaves from
the USA. It became independent in 1847.
The flag of Liberia is clearly based All the counties of Liberia have
on that of the USA, with one white local flags, but the extent of their
star in a blue canton standing for use is unclear.
the freedom it was intended should
shine forth in the so-called “Dark THE PRESIDENT’S FLAG
Continent.” The canton itself There is also a flag for the President,
represents Africa. The eleven stripes using a shield in the form of the
are said to stand, in this case, for the national flag. Whether this is actually
signatories of Liberia’s Declaration of in use is in doubt, in view of the civil
Independence. war in Liberia since 1990.
THE PRESIDENT’S
FLAG
Four stars
Shield is derived from representing
features of the national flag the Supreme
Commander
82
Africa
Ivory Coast
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: December 3, 1959 Usage: National and Civil
The design is
modeled on the Green recalls their
French Tricolore coastal forests
White represents
the country’s rivers
Africa
'UINEA -ALI "URKINA
KINA
Ivory Coast was originally part of French
) 6/29
#/!344
'HANA
West Africa. It became independent in its own
,IBERI
ERIA
ERI
right on August 7, 1960.
After independence, Ivory Coast interpretation is that they symbolize
formed a loose alliance of West progress, hope, and national unity.
African states. The flags of these The flag was adopted in 1959, just
states were influenced both by the prior to independence.
pan-African colors first used by
Ghana, and also by the model of the THE NATIONAL ARMS
French Tricolore, the flag of the The coat of arms, which has a green
former colonial power. shield charged with an elephant’s
head, is based on the emblem of the
ALLIANCE OF WEST AFRICAN STA
T TES Rassemblement Démocratique Africaine,
The colors chosen for Ivory Coast’s the dominant political party at the
flag were also used by Niger, with time of independence. Originally the
which Ivory Coast had an alliance elephant’s head was on a blue shield,
(the resemblance to the colors of but this was altered in 1964 to green,
Ireland is coincidental). They were to match the national flag. The shield
intended to symbolize the following: is supported by two palm trees.
orange represents the savannah Behind is a rising sun. On a scroll at
grasslands, white the rivers, and green the base of the arms is the title of the
the coastal forests. Another state, “Republique de Côte d’Ivoire.”
83
Africa
Burkina
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: August 4, 1984 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
-ALI
.IGER Burkina, originally known as Upper Volta, was
"52+).!
once a French colony. It became self-governing in
"ENIN
'HANA
4OGO
)VORY
ORY
R #OAST
G
84
Africa
Ghana
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: March 6, 1957 Usage: National
Green is symbolic
of the country’s The star of
rich forests African freedom
Africa
RKK
"URKINA
4OGO
O
Previously the Gold Coast, Ghana became
RY '(!.!
)VORY
#OAST
independent from Britain in 1957. It took its new
name from that of an historic African empire.
Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first the inspiration for numerous other
leader after independence, was the African flags during the period of
first to introduce the politically decolonization.
symbolic pan-African colors—red, Ghana followed the flag patterns
yellow, green, and black—into established in the United Kingdom,
African flags. They were ultimately and so has a both a red ensign for use
derived from the colors of Ethiopia, on civil vessels and a white ensign for
dating back to the 19th century and naval vessels. This use of several flags
have now become associated with sets it apart from other West African
the Rastafarian movement in the states, which normally have only one
West Indies. The flag also became all-purpose flag.
85
Africa
Togo
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: April 27, 1960 Usage: National and Civil
Red symbolizes
the blood shed Yellow reflects
during the struggle Togo’s mineral
for independence wealth
Green represents
agricultural wealth
Africa
"URKINA
"ENIN Togo, once a German colony, was divided
4/'/
/' /
.IGERIA between France and Britain in 1914. The French
'HANA
part became independent, as Togo, in 1960.
During the period of autonomy, signify its agricultural and mineral
1956-1960, the flag was green resources. The red canton is for the
with two yellow stars arranged blood of those who struggled for
diagonally with the French Tricolore independence, while the white star
in the canton. is for hope, as on Liberia’s flag.
On independence in 1960, the The national emblem contains two
present flag was adopted. The five lions holding bows and arrows, and a
stripes stand for the regions of Togo, sun with the country’s initials. Above
and are in green and yellow to the sun is the national motto.
EMBLEM OF TOGO
The national motto—
“Union, Paix, Solidarité ”,
“RT” stands for the title meaning “Unity, Peace,
of the state “République Solidarity”
Togolaise”
Two lions are shown
carrying bows and arrows
to protect the homeland
86
Africa
Benin
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 16, 1959 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
"URKINA
KINA
.IGERIA
Originally known as Dahomey, Benin became
4OGO "%.). autonomous in 1958 and independent from France
in 1960. Its name was changed in 1975.
The flag used today is the same as arms. The seal depicts a pirogue or
that adopted in 1959, although after African canoe with a bow and arrow,
the revolution of December 1975, and two clubs. The arms consists of
a green flag with a red star in the a quartered shield depicting a local
canton was used. The original flag Somba fortress, the medal of the
was restored in 1990, as was the Order of the Star of Benin, a palm
original national emblem. The new tree, and a sailing ship. The motto is
name of the country was retained. “Fraternité, Justice, Travail” meaning
Benin has both a seal and a coat of “Fraternity, Justice, Work.”
ARMS OF BENIN
87
Africa
Nigeria
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: October 1, 1960 Usage: National
White
symbolizes
peace and
unity
Green recalls
the land
Africa
"ENIN
.IGER
G
#HAD Nigeria was formed in 1914 from several British
.)'%2)!
colonies and protectorates. In 1954 it became a
#AMEROON
RO
federation and in 1960 achieved independence.
The national flag is an adaptation of one time the states also had flags.
the winning entry in a competition The coat of arms was granted in
held in 1959. The original had a red 1960, but the motto has been altered
sun with streaming rays placed at since then to include the words
the top of the white stripe. This was “Peace and Progress.” The shield
removed by the judges and the flag represents the confluence of two
has not been altered since. rivers and the crest is a red eagle.
Like Ghana, Nigeria has special It all stands on a green base strewn
flags for civil and naval vessels and at with the Coctus spectabilis flower.
88
Africa
Cameroon
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: May 20, 1975 Usage: National and Civil
Yellow symbolizes
The star of unity prosperity
Africa
.IGERIA
#HAD Cameroon was originally a German colony,
#!2 which was partitioned by the French and the British
#!-%2/
%2/
2 //.
2/
after World War I.
The French area became single star in the center of the flag
autonomous on January 1, 1959 and to symbolize the new unity of
independent a year later. A national the state.
flag was adopted during the period
of French control and was the first THE NATIONAL ARMS
West African flag after that of Ghana The coat of arms, like the flag,
to use the red, yellow, and green has been altered to reflect the
colors. The actual design is based on changes in the constitution. The
the French Tricolore. The original date of independence of French
design of 1959 did not have a star. Cameroon has been removed,
leaving just the name of the state on
A NEW UNITED FLAG the scroll and there is now only one
In 1961, the southern part of yellow star in the green on the
British Cameroon joined the shield. The main features of the
former French colony forming current arms are a map of the
the current state of Cameroon. country, a balance, and two crossed
To mark this, two yellow stars were fasces or local axes. The shield is
placed in the upper hoist. In 1975, divided in the colors of the national
the two stars were replaced by a flag; green, red, and yellow.
89
Africa
Equatorial Guinea
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 12, 1968 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
#AMEROON Equatorial Guinea includes the former Spanish
%15!4/2
2)!
2 )!,
!,
!,
'5).%
%!
%!
#ONGO
colonies of Río Muni, the island of Fernando Po
'ABON
(Bioko), and other islands in the Gulf of Guinea.
The flag was first shown on the day ARMS OF EQUATORIAL GUINEA
of independence, October 12, 1968, The arms consists of a silver shield
and has always contained the national charged with a silk-cotton tree,
emblem in the center, although from which was derived from the arms
1972, during the regime of Francisco of Río Muni. Above the shield is an
Nguema, a different national emblem arc of six, six-pointed stars, which
appeared on the flag. The original represent Río Muni and the offshore
coat of arms was restored after he islands. Beneath the shield is a scroll
was deposed in August 1979. with the national motto.
ARMS OF EQUATORIAL
GUINEA The six stars stand for
the six parts of the state
A silk-cotton tree
A silver shield
The national motto—
“Unidad, Paz, Justicia”
(“Unity, Peace, Justice”)
90
Africa
Africa
0R¤NCIPE %QUATORIAL
'UINEA
IAL
EA
São Tomé & Príncipe are a pair of islands in the
3!/ 4/-%
02).#)0% Gulf of Guinea that formerly belonged to Portugal.
3áO 4OM£ 'ABBON
They became independent in 1975.
The flag is based on the party flag of The shield within the national
the Movement for the Liberation of arms is in the form of a cocoa pod,
São Tomé & Príncipe (mlstp). It was on which is depicted a cocoa palm,
retained even after the party lost its the country’s main export. Above
monopoly of power in 1990. this is a star representing freedom.
The combination of red, yellow, The supporters are two pigeons
and green with black stars, is clearly standing on a scroll with the national
based on the flag of Ghana, with the motto—“Unidade, Disciplina, Trabajo”
stars standing for the two islands. (“Unity, Discipline, Work”).
91
Africa
Gabon
Ratio: 3:4 Adopted: August 9, 1960 Usage: National and Civil
Blue represents
the sea
Africa
Equatoriall
Cameroon
n
Gabon was once a province of French Equatorial
Guinea Congo
C
GA
A BON
Dem. Rep.
D
Africa. It became independent in 1960 under the
Congo
leadership of the Gabon Democratic Party.
The original flag was adopted in resources, especially its timber.
1959 and was similar to the present The coat of arms is of European
one, but with stripes of unequal style and is in the colors of the flag.
width and the French Tricolore in the The shield is supported by two
canton. The Tricolore was dropped at black panthers and an okouméé tree,
independence. The flag’s unusual symbolic of the timber trade. The
proportions are laid down by law and coat of arms is unusual in having a
the colors are said to stand for the Latin motto—“Uniti Progrediamur,”
sea, and for the country’s natural beneath the branches of the tree.
ARMS OF GABON
92
Africa
Congo
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 20, 1959 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
#AMEROON #!2
Congo was a French colony until independence as
'ABON
#/.
.'/
$EM 2EP
Congo-Brazzaville in 1960. After a coup in 1964, it
#ONGO
became the People’s Republic (1970-91).
The current flag was originally regime which had taken power.
adopted for the autonomous republic,
established on August 18, 1959. It is AN OLD FLAG FOR A NEW ERA
in the pan-African colors used by At the National Conference for the
many other West African flags. It was restoration of democracy in 1991,
retained without change when full which restored a multiparty
independence was achieved in 1960. democracy, it was decided to re-
adopt the original flag, arms and
THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC 1970—91 national anthem. This decision was
Following the Marxist revolution made official on June 4, 1991.
in 1964, no new national flag was
officially adopted until the People’s ARMS OF CONGO
Republic was formed in 1970. The coat of arms was originally
This flag was red and contained adopted in 1963 and was designed
the national emblem in the canton. by the European heraldist Louis
The emblem depicted a wreath Mühlemann, who also designed
containing a crossed hoe and the arms of Gabon. It follows a
hammer, and a gold star. This traditional European heraldic style.
represented the communist
93
Africa
Angola
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 11, 1975 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
Congo Dem. Repp.
C
Congo
p.
Originally a Portuguese colony, Angola was
AN
N
NGOLA
A
eventually liberated by the People’s Liberation
Naam
amibia Movement of Angola in 1975.
The flag of the People’s Liberation cog-wheel, star, and machete, but
Movement of Angola (mpla) is like includes a hoe. These symbols are on
the present national flag but with a a background which, like the
yellow star. The half cog-wheel and emblem on the flag, is similar to the
machete on the national flag were devices used in Soviet designs. The
added, to create an emblem cog-wheel is balanced by a wreath of
reminiscent of the hammer and sickle cotton, coffee, and corn, and an open
on the Soviet flag. book. On the scroll is “Republic of
The national arms also features the Angola,” the state name.
ARMS OF ANGOLA
94
Africa
Zambia
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 24, 1964 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
Ta
Tanzania
Dem. Rep.
D
Congo Zambia was formerly the British colony of
Angola
ZAMBIA
B M
Ma
Malawi
Mo ambi
Mozambique
b
Northern Rhodesia. It was granted full
Z
Zimbabwe
w independence in 1964.
Although the United National In the arms, the eagle, which
Independence Party is no longer once appeared in the upper part of
dominant in Zambia, the party’s the shield, forms the crest, above a
colors remain in the bottom left crossed pickax and hoe. White and
of the flag, designed by graphic black bars on the shield represent
artists just prior to independence. the famous Victoria Falls. The
The eagle is taken from the national supporters are an African man and
arms, which are based on those of woman and the motto on the base
the former Northern Rhodesia. reads “One Zambia, One Nation.”
Tanzania
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: June 30, 1964 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
Rwanda Kenya
Burundi
The British Trusteeship Territory of Tanganyika
Dem. Rep.
D
Congoo
p.
N;HT;
;HC;
;
became independent in 1961. In 1964, it merged
Za
Zambia
a Mozza
zzambique
a
with the Republic of Zanzibar, to form Tanzania.
The original flag of independent white stripe along the hoist.
Tanganyika was derived from that
of the Tanganyika African National A NEW UNITED FLAG
Union, the dominant party at the When the two countries united to
time. This was horizontal stripes of form Tanzania, a new national flag
green-black-green. For the national was created which combined the
flag, yellow fimbriations were placed colors of Tanganyika and Zanzibar.
between the green and the black. The country’s coat of arms was also
Derived from the Afro-Shirazi altered to include the new national
Party, the flag of Zanzibar is green, flag in the shield, again to reflect the
black, and blue stripes, with a vertical new union of the two countries.
FLAG OF ZANZIBAR
The national flag was These are the colors of
added as a canton to the the Afro-Shirazi Party,
revolutionary flag of 1964 who overthrew the ruling
Sultan in 1964
Africa
Malawi
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: July 6, 1964 Usage: National and Civil
Red represents
Green represents the blood shed
the land for freedom
Africa
4ANZANIA
As Nyasaland, Malawi formed part of British
-!,!7)
!,
,!
,!
:AMBIA Rhodesia and Nyasaland from 1953-63. It became
-OZAMB
MBIQUE
MB
fully independent in 1964.
The colors of the flag are the same as The kwacha also appeared on the
those of Malawi Congress Party colonial coat of arms adopted in
(mcp) which led the country to 1914. It was retained on the current
independence in 1964. The mcp arms granted with the flag in 1964.
flag was derived from the flag
popularized by Marcus Garvey at the THE PRESIDENT’S FLAG
time of World War I, as the flag of The flag of the President has a
Africa or “Ethiopia,” symbolizing an bright red field. It uses the lion
African renaissance. For Malawi’s passant found in the center of
national flag the rising sun or kwacha the coat of arms, with the
was added in red. name “Malawi.”
97
Africa
Zimbabwe
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: April 18, 1980 Usage: National and Civil
Green,
The national yellow, red,
bird of and black are
Zimbabwe the colors
of zanu
and pan-
Africanism
Africa
ue
Zambia
biq Zimbabwe, the name of an ancient African city,
m
ZIMBABWE
a
oz
Botswana Sou
uth
u
Afriiica
formerly known as Rhodesia.
The Zimbabwe African National triangle with a black edge,
Union (zanu) led the struggle for symbolizing new leaders and their
self-determination in the 1970s, desire for peace. Within this is the
and its flag was used as the basis for Zimbabwe bird on a red star.
the new national flag. The zanu
flag is composed of concentric THE ZIMBABWE BIRD
panels of green, yellow, red, with The bird is representative of birds
a central black panel; the colors of found in the ruins of the ancient
pan-Africanism. The national flag city of Zimbabwe and has been a
has these colors simply arranged local symbol since 1924. The star
in stripes. Toward the hoist is a white stands for an international outlook.
EMBLEM OF ZIMBABWE
A representation of the
ancient city of Zimbabwe
98
Africa
Mozambique
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: May 1, 1983 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
M
Malaw
Malawi
Zambiaa
Z
Tanzania
an
n Mozambique was a Portuguese colony before
M O Z MBI
MOZAMBIQUE
MO
MOZ
Madagascar
daga
becoming independent under the single-party rule of
frelimo in 1975.
The original flag of the Frente da Africa. On independence the colors
Libertação da Moçambiquee (frelimo), were re-arranged to form the national
the leading political party in flag, in rays emanating from the upper
Mozambique, also had green, black hoist. Over this was a white cog-
and yellow horizontal stripes wheel containing the hoe, rifle, book,
separated by white fimbriations. and star which appear on the present
In the hoist was a red triangle. flag. The flag was altered in 1983; the
The black, green, and yellow were colors were arranged in horizontal
derived from the flag of the African stripes, and the star of Marxism was
National Congress, used in South made larger.
EMBLEM OF MOZAMBIQUE
99
Africa
Namibia
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: March 21, 1990 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
!NGOLA :AMBIA
:
:IM
MB
:IMBABWE
WE Namibia, once German South West Africa, passed
.!-
- )")!
-))
"OTSWANA
NA
into South African control after World War I, until
3OUTH !FRICA
gaining independence in 1990.
The national flag combines the colors ARMS OF NAMIBIA
of the South West African People’s The coat of arms, adopted with
Organization (swapo), which the flag, appears on the President’s
liberated Namibia in 1990, and those Flag. The shield is of the same
of the Democratic Turnhalle pattern as the national flag, and is
Alliance, another Namibian political supported by a pair of oryx. On a
party. The sun, which is similar to sand-dune beneath is a welwitschia
that on the flag of Taiwan, is said to plant, found in the Namib Desert.
stand for life and energy. The crest is a fish eagle on a
chieftain’s head-ring.
ARMS OF NAMIBIA
The fish eagle stands on
a chieftain’s head-ring
100
Africa
Botswana
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: September 30, 1966 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
.AMIBIA
:IM
IMBABWE Botswana, originally known as British
"/437!.! Bechuanaland, is now known by its Setswana
3 !FRICA
3
name. Independence was achieved in 1966.
Unusually for Africa, the national stripe fimbriated with white in
flag of Botswana is not derived the center of the flag represents the
from that of the dominant political idea of the African and European
party. Neither does it use the populations of Botswana living
pan-African colors. together in harmony.
101
Africa
Lesotho
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 4, 2006 Usage: National and Civil
Blue is symbolic of
A black mokorotlo the importance of
(Basotho hat) water and rain
represents the people
Green represents
plenty
Africa
,%3/4(/ Lesotho was formerly known as British
3OUTH
!FRICA Basutoland but is now known by its Sesotho name.
It became independent in 1966.
The national flag was changed Royal Standard the whole arms
to commemorate the fortieth appear in color.
anniversary of independence. The The shield, of African design,
change from a shield to a black contains a crocodile, which is a
mokorotlo, a Basotho hat, reflects symbol of King Moshoeshoe I, who
a peaceful future for the country. founded the state in 1824. It stands
on a representation of Mount Thaba
ROYAL ARMS OF LESOTHO Bosiu, the Mountain of Night, and
On the national flag only the outline is supported by two Basuto ponies.
of the shield is shown, with its tufted Behind the shield is a spear and a
spine, and two weapons, but on the knobkerrie, a local club.
102
Africa
Swaziland
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 30, 1967 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
3OUTH
!FRICA
-OZAMBIQ
AMBIQUE
AMBIQ
AMBIQU Swaziland was a British Protectorate until 1968.
37!:),!.$
!:),! $ It is now ruled by the Swazi royal family who
founded the kingdom in the 19th century.
The flag is based on one given by are two assegais—local spears. The
the late King Sobhuza II to the shield and assegais appear on the
Swazi Pioneer Corps in 1941. On national arms, which is supported by
it are an Emasotsha shield, laid a lion and an elephant, symbolic of
horizontally. The shield is reinforced the King and of the Queen Mother.
by a staff from which hang injobo The crest is an otter-skin head-dress
tassles; bunches of feathers of the decorated with widowbird feathers,
widowbird and the lourie. They also and the motto is “Siyinqaba” meaning
decorate the shield. Above the staff “We are the fortress.”
ARMS OF SWAZILAND
A head-dress and
widowbird feathers
A lion, symbolic
of the King
An elephant, symbolic
The national motto— of the Queen Mother
“We are the fortress”
103
Africa
South Africa
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: April 27, 1994 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
.AM
MIBIA
"OTSWAN
WANAA The Union of South Africa was formed in 1910
3 /54( 3WAZILAND
3
,ESOTHO
and the republic in 1961. In 1994 a democratic,
! &2)#!
multi-racial constitution was adopted.
South Africa had no distinctive flag find a new flag and the present
until 1928 when a national flag was design, created by the Chief Herald
adopted based on the orange, white, of South Africa, was adopted.
and blue tricolor used by the first The new South African flag
Dutch settlers, with three smaller flags combines the colors of the Boer
in the center for Britain, Transvaal, republics, with those of the African
and the Orange Free State. National Congress (anc), whose flag
was adopted in 1917. The Y-shape
A NEW FLAG FOR A NEW ERA represents the convergence of old
When a multi-racial democracy came traditions with new and the progress
into prospect, attempts were made to of the united state into the future.
104
Africa
Seychelles
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: January 8, 1996 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
+ENY
NYA
NY The Seychelles became independent from France
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ANZANIA
AN in 1976. In 1977, a coup d’étatt brought the
-OZAMBIQUE
Seychelles Peoples United Party to power.
The Seychelles has had three flags the latest flag allows for the colors of
since independence. After the coup the Democratic Party to be included
of 1977 a new national flag based on in a striking new design.
the party flag of the ruling SPUP was The coat of arms was adopted in
adopted. This used their colors of 1976 and it has been only slightly
red, white, and green. altered since then. It is based on the
Following the adoption of the old colonial badge and depicts the
Constitution of 1993, the existence most famous inhabitant of the
of other parties was permitted and islands, the giant tortoise.
105
Africa
Comoros
Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: January 2002 Usage: Government and Civil
Each stripe
represents one of
The crescent
the four islands
of Islam
Green is the
traditional color
of Islam
Africa
A monogram of Allah
A monogram of the
Prophet Muhammad
106
Africa
Madagascar
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 14, 1958 Usage: National and Civil
Africa
E Madagascar was annexed by France in 1895
I QU
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-OZA
ARMS OF MADAGASCAR
N’I MADAG The state title is in
KA AS
LI Malagasy, the local
B
IK
PO
traveller’s tree
A
An outline of
Madagascar
The national motto—
“Fatherland, Liberty, A stylized paddy field
Justice” and a zebu, a local ox
107
Africa
Mauritius
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: January 9, 1968 Usage: National
Red reflects
independence
Blue is the color of
the Indian Ocean
Yellow symbolizes
a bright future
Africa
-OZAM
- MBIQUE
M
Mauritius was taken over by Britain from France
-
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in 1810. The colony achieved independence in
-ADAGASCAR
ADAGAS
DAGAS 2£UNION
1968 and became a republic in 1992.
The flag was designed by the attributes of the island. In the
College of Arms in Britain prior lower right quarter is a key and on
to independence, and is a simple the left-hand side is a white star,
statement of the colors found in the which are referred to in the Latin
coat of arms. motto, “Stella Clavisque Maris Indici”
(“The star and the key of the Indian
MAURITIUS’S COAT OF ARMS Ocean”). The supporters are a dodo
The coat of arms was granted on and a deer each holding a sugar
August 25, 1906, and depicts various cane, the island’s staple crop.
ARMS OF MAURITIUS
108
Europe
Iceland
Ratio: 18:25 Adopted: June 19, 1915 Usage: National and Civil
Europe
'REENLA
NLAND
NLA )#%,!.$
Ruled by the Danes from the 14th century, Iceland
became a realm within the kingdom
of Denmark in 1918, and a republic in 1944.
Iceland’s first national flag in 1918 and became the national
was a white cross on a deep blue flag when Iceland gained
background. It was first paraded independence from Denmark
in 1897. The modern flag dates in 1944.
from 1915, when a red cross was The naval ensign is swallow-
inserted into the white cross of tailed, as are the naval ensigns of
the original flag. It was adopted all the Scandinavian countries.
109
Europe
Norway
Ratio: 8:11 Adopted: July 17, 1821 Usage: National and Civil
Europe
110
Europe
Denmark
Ratio: 28:37 Adopted: 1625 Usage: National and Civil
According to
legend, a red flag
with a white cross
“appeared as a sign
from heaven” The off-centered
cross is the basis for
other Scandinavian
countries’ flags
Europe
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3WEDEN
Denmark is Europe’s oldest kingdom, dating back
to the 10th century. The present queen rules under a
constitution granted in 1953.
Besides being the oldest monarchy reality, the flag may have been a gift
in Europe, Denmark also has the from the Pope during the Crusades.
oldest flag, known as the Dannebrog,
or Danish cloth. Legend says that THE SCANDINAVIAN CROSS
a blood-red flag with a white cross The flag was originally square, but its
appeared as a sign from heaven to design was elongated and the arm of
King Valdemar II during the the cross in the fly was extended. It
conquest of Estonia in 1219. In has become a model for other flags.
Overseas Territories
111
Europe
Sweden
Ratio: 5:8 Adopted: June 22, 1906 Usage: National and Civil
Europe
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Until 1523, when King Gustav Vasa laid the
foundation of Sweden as a separate state, the
country was under the influence of Denmark.
The present flag was adopted in On this day in 1523 King Gustav
1906, but it was first used in a Vasa was elected and, on the same
similar form almost four centuries date in 1809, Sweden adopted a
before. The design is based on the new constitution.
Scandinavian cross. The flag’s blue
and yellow colors are thought to SWEDISH ROYAL STANDARD
come from the national coat of The coat of arms is placed in the
arms—three gold crowns in a blue center of the Royal Standard,
field—which originated in the 14th which is used on special occasions
century. A national flag day is by Parliament and dates from
celebrated each year on June 6. the 1440s.
112
Europe
Finland
Ratio: 11:18 Adopted: May 29, 1918 Usage: National and Civil
113
Europe
Estonia
Ratio: 7:11 Adopted: May 8, 1990 Usage: National and Civil
Blue represents
loyalty and Estonia’s
sky, sea and lakes
White represents
virtue, the snow
and Estonia’s
struggle for freedom
Europe
&INLAND
2USSIAN
Estonia declared independence from the Russian
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Empire in 1918. In 1940 it was annexed by the Soviet
,ATVIA
Union, but recovered its independence in 1991.
The tricolor was first adopted by sea, and lakes. Black symbolizes the
students in 1881 during uprisings past suffering of the people, the soil
against occupying Russian Tsarist and the traditional black peasant’s
forces. It was re-adopted as the jacket. White represents virtue and
national flag in 1990 just prior to the struggle for freedom. It is also the
independence. The colors represent color of birch bark and snow.
Estonian history, folk costumes, The great coat of arms was
and landscape. Blue is the color of originally the emblem of a 13th-
loyalty and also represents the sky, century Danish king.
114
Europe
Latvia
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: February 27, 1990 Usage: National and Civil
Europe
%STONIA
2USS
Over the centuries, Latvia has been invaded by
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Swedes, Poles, and Russians. It became independent
,ITHUANIA "ELARUS
from the Soviet Union in 1991.
Though officially adopted in 1922, to one legend, is that a Latvian leader
the Latvian flag was in use as early was wounded in battle, and the edges
as the 13th century, but its use was of the white sheet in which he was
suppressed during Soviet rule. wrapped were stained by his blood.
The red color is sometimes The coat of arms depicts a
described as symbolizing the readiness tripartite shield recalling the three
of the Latvians to give the blood reunited duchies of Latvia. The
from their hearts for freedom. An shield is held by a red lion and a
alternative interpretation, according silver griffin.
115
Europe
Lithuania
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: March 20, 1989 Usage: National and Civil
Green Yellow
symbolizes represents
the forests and wheat and
renewed hope freedom from
want
Red symbolizes
patriotism and courage
Europe
2USS
&ED
,ATVIA
After declaring independence from Russia in 1918,
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Lithuania was again occupied by the Soviet Union
0OLAND "ELARUS
in 1940. It declared independence in 1991.
The national flag dates from the refers to the color of the medieval
independent republic of 1918–1940. banners of the kingdom of Lithuania.
It was suppressed under the Soviet Together, the colors stand for hope,
regime, but was re-adopted in courage and freedom from want.
1990. Yellow is said to stand for
ripening wheat, green for the forests, ARMS OF LITHUANIA
and red for love of the country, or The coat of arms’ red shield dates
alternatively for the blood shed in from the 14th century. It was
defence of the nation. Red also re-adopted in 1991.
ARMS OF LITHUANIA
116
Europe
Poland
Ratio: 5:8 Adopted: August 1, 1919 Usage: National
The bicolor
design was White
adopted after the represents a
World War I desire for peace
Red and white
were taken
from the 13th
century arms
Europe
2USS &ED
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,ITH
Poland is strategically placed in Europe and its
"ELARUS
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borders have constantly shifted. They were last
#ZECH 2EP
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altered after World War II, in 1945.
The red and white colors of the flag added. The border and the crown
have been used since the 13th were both dropped under the
century, although they did not communist administration, but the
became the official national colors crown was restored in 1993.
until 1831. They were taken from the
colors of the national arms, first THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF POLAND
recorded in 1295. Under communist rule from 1945–
1989, white was commonly said to
THE NATIONAL ARMS represent the people’s desire for
The coat of arms traditionally shows peace, and during this period, red
a white eagle on a red field. This stood for socialism. The flag was
emblem has remained more or less re-confirmed as the national flag by
unchanged throughout Poland’s the new government in 1992.
turbulent history. The coat of arms The plain bicolored flag is used for
was used by the Kingdom of Poland general purposes on land. When at
until its fall in 1795, and was sea the flag is charged with the state
re-adopted by the newly-declared arms in the center. Poland also has a
republic around 1918/19, when a swallow-tailed ensign, which is also
zigzag border and crown were charged with the state arms.
117
Europe
Germany
Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: May 23, 1949 Usage: National and Civil
118
Europe
Länder flags
On German regional flags the arms only appear on the official versions
(except Lower Saxony, Saarland, and Rhineland Palatinate).
BADEN- BAVARIA
WÜRTTEMBURG
The flag was adopted in 1953. Its avaria’s flag was adopted in 1950, but blue
colors derive from the arms of Duke nd white have been Bavarian colors since
Frederick V of Swabia, the coat of arms 330 and the lozenge shapes first appeared
dates back to 1265. It was adopted as n banners in the 15th century.
the state arms in 1954.
BERLIN BRANDENBURG
The flag was first adopted for West Berlin The colors of the flag are from the
in 1950 and extended to the whole city hield, dating from 1170, although red and
in 1991. The bear, a pun on the name white were also the colors of the medieval
Berlin, dates from 1338 and the colors from Hanseatic League. The flag was adopted
1861. n 1990.
BREMEN HAMBURG
The flag of Bremen predates its coat of Used since 1325, red and white are the
arms, which was adopted in 1891. Hanseatic colors. The castle is for Hamburg;
Prior to this, Bremen was a member of he three towers for the Trinity; the cross
the Hanseatic League, where the or Christ; the stars for the Father and
flag originated. Holy Spirit.
The flag of Hessen was adopted in 1948. This flag uses the national flag with
The coat of arms was that of Ludwig III ower Saxony’s local arms in the center.
of Thuringia in 1182. The red and white t was adopted in 1946, but the arms dates
colors of the flag are taken from the lion in rom 1361, when it appeared on the seal of
the arms. he ruler.
119
Europe
MECKLENBURG- NORTH-RHINE-
VORPOMMERN WESTPHALIA
This flag, adopted in 1991, combines blue The coat of arms depicts the River Rhine of
and white of Pomerania with blue, yellow, he Rhineland, the horse of Westphalia, and
and red of Mecklenburg. The bull and the he rose of Lippe; the three territories which
gryphon are also local emblems. Red and nited to form the state. The colors of the
white recall the Hanseatic League. ag are from the arms.
RHINELAND-PALATINATE SAARLAND
The flag was adopted in 1948 when the Adopted in 1957, the flag of Saarland
arms were placed on the national flag. ecalls the different parts of the state.
The coat of arms depicts the lion of the Depicted on the shield is the lion of
Palatinate dating from 1229, the cross of aarbrücken, the cross of Trier, the
Trier from 1273, and the wheel of Mainz agles of Lorraine and the lion of
from 1335. falz-Zweibrücken.
SA XONY SA XONY-ANHALT
The flag was adopted in 1991, but the coat This flag was the same as Baden-
of arms is the traditional arms of the rulers Württemberg until 1991, when the colors
of Saxony; black and yellow bands and the were reversed. The eagle recalls Prussia, the
green crown of rue. The white and green icolored bands and rue crown, Saxony, and
flag dates from the 19th century. he bear and wall are the arms of Anhalt.
SCHLESWIG-HOLSTEIN THURINGIA
The shield depicts two lions from arms of Another flag whose colors are based on the
Schleswig and a nettle-leaf from those of tate arms. It was adopted in 1991. The red
Holstein. The colors of the flag, adopted in nd white lion was the arms of the Counts
1957, are taken from the arms. f Thuringia in the 12th century.
120
Europe
The Netherlands
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: February 19, 1937 Usage: National and Civil
Europe
Independent from Spain in the 16th century, the
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'ERMANY
Netherlands was a republic until the Napoleonic
"ELGIUM
Wars and became a kingdom in 1814.
The first Stadtholder,
r or ruler, of the by Royal Decree in 1937. As the
Dutch Republic was William of first revolutionary flag, it has had
Orange, who joined with Dutch a seminal influence throughout
nationalists and led the struggle for the world, particularly on the
independence from Spain. Pan-Slavic colors of Russia.
Until about 1800, in the case of
THE PRINSVLAG both the orange- and red-striped
Partly out of respect for him, the first versions, the number of stripes and
flag adopted by the Dutch, was a their order frequently varied.
horizontal tricolor of orange, white,
and blue (see page 6). It became ARMS OF THE NETHERLANDS
known as the Prinsenvlagg and was The Dutch coat of arms depicts a
based on the livery of William of golden lion on a blue shield, holding
Orange. The orange dye was a sword and a sheaf of arrows. It is
particularly unstable and tended to a combination of the coat of arms
turn red after a while, so in the of the Dutch Republic and that of
mid-17th century, red was made the the House of Orange. The seven
official color. The flag has flown arrows represent the seven original
since then, but was only confirmed provinces in the Netherlands.
121
Europe
DRENTHE FLEVOLAND
White and red are the colors of the Blue is for the Lake Ijssel from which the
Archbishops of Utrecht, former rulers rovince was reclaimed. Green is for
of Drenthe. The black castle and stars egetation and yellow for the cornfields.
recall the uprising of Coevorden against The lily recalls Lely, the engineer of the
the archbishop. eclamation project.
FRIESLAND GELDERLAND
The flag is based on that of the 15th n 1371, the dukedoms of Gelre and
century kings of Friesland. The Gulik were united and combined their
colors are those of the Dutch flag. rms. The new arms was blue, yellow,
The stripes and flowers represent the nd black, the colors which appear in
seven districts of Friesland. he flag, hoisted in 1953.
GRONINGEN LIMBURG
The flag, adopted in 1950, combines The red lion is from the arms of
green and white from the town of imburg. White and yellow are from
Groningen, surrounded by red, white, ocal coats of arms, while the narrow
and blue of Ommeland, reflecting the lue stripe is for the Maas River which
town’s position. rosses the province.
The design, adopted in 1959, Adopted in 1958, this flag unites the
originated in Antwerp where red olors of Holland; yellow and red, with
and white checked coats of arms lue and yellow of West Friesland.
were popular. It was associated with Yellow, the common color, is placed
the area from the 17th century. t the top.
122
Europe
The yellow and red stripes recall the The flag is a banner of the arms of Holland
ancient association of the province with nd was adopted in this form in 1986,
Holland. The wavy blue stripe running eplacing the previous simple triband of
across the center is for the Ijssel River, after ellow-red-yellow, which was also based on
which the province is named. he colors of the arms .
UTRECHT ZEELAND
The Archbishop of Utrecht used a red The flag of Zeeland, adopted in 1949,
flag with a white cross from 1528. The hows its full coat of arms. The wavy
Archbishop’s flag remains in the canton lue and white stripes are for the sea
of the modern flag, adopted in 1952. nd the constant struggle to control
The field is in the traditional colors of . From the water, the Dutch lion
the province. ises in triumph.
The flag of Aruba was adopted Originally adopted in 1959, the flag
in 1976 when it was still administered ncorporated the Dutch colors with six stars
as part of the Netherlands Antilles. The n the blue stripe, for the island groups.
flag was retained when Aruba became These were reduced to five in 1986 when
autonomous in 1986. Aruba left the Netherlands Antilles.
123
Europe
Belgium
Ratio: 13:15 Adopted: January 23, 1831 Usage: National and Civil
Black is taken
from the shield
of the arms
Europe
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HERLANDS
HER
RL Following centuries of foreign domination,
'ER
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as an independent kingdom in 1830.
The Belgian colors black, yellow and stripes, appeared in 1792 in a revolt
red derive from the arms of Brabant, against Austrian rule. On
a black shield with a gold lion having independence in 1831, they were
red tongue and claws. The first flag changed to vertical in imitation of
in these colors, but with horizontal the French Tricolore.
BRUSSELS FLANDERS
Adopted in 1991, the lily was widespread Adopted in 1985, it is based on the arms, and
in the area which later became Brussels. the colors are taken from the national flag.
Adopted in 1990, the lion recalls former owner, The cockerel is derived from the Gallic rooster,
Limburg; 9 roses are for the 9 communes. recalling the cultural links with France.
124
Europe
Ireland
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: January 21, 1919 Usage: National and Civil
125
Europe
United Kingdom
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: January 1, 1801 Usage: National and Civil
The saltire of
St. Patrick has
been counter-
The white saltire changed with the
on a blue field white saltire of
was taken St. Andrew
from the St.
Andrew’s Cross
126
Europe
Subnational flags
Most regional flags are older than the Union Flag, except those
based on the St. George’s Cross, which date from the 20th century.
ENGLAND WALES
Originally used in 1191, the flag of Approved in 1959 as the Welsh national
St. George became the flag of England ag, the Red Dragon is an ancient
after 1277. The white flag has a red mblem of Wales. For a time it appeared
upright cross throughout. At sea it is n a green hill, but the horizontal
the flag of an Admiral. ivision is traditional.
SCOTLAND SCOTLAND
(THE STANDARD) (NATIONAL FLAG)
The red lion on gold is the traditional n use since 1512, the Scottish flag is
royal flag of Scotland. The fleur-de-lis he Cross of St. Andrew. As James was
on the border recall the “auld alliance” King of Scotland before he was King
with France. Its exact date of adoption f England, this flag formed the basis
is not known. f the Union Flag.
JERSEY
127
Europe
This form has been in use since the This is used when the Queen is not in a
accession of Queen Victoria in 1837 Queen’s Realm” (i.e., a country of
and depicts the three areas united to which she is directly the Head of State)
form the United Kingdom (England, r in one which does not have a local
Scotland, and Northern Ireland). Royal Standard. It is a banner with Her
Strictly, flags of this kind are armorial Majesty’s initial “E”, a gold crown, and
banners rather than “standards.” haplet of roses.
The banner for Prince Philip has The banner is an adaptation of the Royal
quarters representing his descent tandard, with a “label” for an eldest son;
from the royal families of both white bar with three points, and the
Denmark and Greece, and from the uartered arms of the Principality of
Mountbattens, and his title Duke of Wales over all in the center. Labels are
Edinburgh is represented by the arms sed for children and grandchildren of
of the city. he Queen.
128
Europe
Overseas Territories
Official flags for British Overseas Territories are generally based on the British blue
or government ensign with a local badge in the fly.
ANGUILLA ANGUILLA
(UNOFFICIAL)
The flag of Anguilla was adopted in Adopted in 1967, when the island
1990. It is a blue ensign with the eparated from St. Kitts and Nevis. The
badge of the island. This derives urquoise stripe represents the sea, and
from the unofficial flag used locally he three dolphins are for friendship,
on land only. wisdom, and strength.
Unusually, Bermuda uses a red ensign. The badge dates from 1909, the flag
The badge shows a lion holding a shield rom 1956. It shows St. Ursula, the
on which appears the 1609 wreck of amesake of the islands, with a lamp.
a ship, which struck a reef, not a cliff he was martyred with 11,000 virgins,
as is shown. epresented by 11 lamps.
The white field of the new flag, The flag was adopted in 1990. Blue
approved in 1998, symbolizes the snow nd white wavy lines represent the
which covers the Antarctic continent. cean and the palm recalls the natural
It is used by research stations within egetation of the islands. The crown
the territory. hows British possession.
CAYM
A AN ISLANDS FALKLAND
SLANDS
Blue and white lines recall the sea and the The badge shows a ram for the sheep
three stars, the three main islands. The ndustry of the islands. The ship is the
lion of England appears above and the Desire, the ship of John Davies who
crest is a turtle and a pineapple for the iscovered the islands in 1592. The flag
fauna and flora. was hoisted in 1948.
129
Europe
The blue ensign of Gibraltar was The local flag of Gibraltar City is a
officially adopted in 1895. The badge anner of the arms officially granted
is based on the arms of Gibraltar n 1926. It is based on the original
granted by Ferdinand, the King of rms granted by Spain in 1502. The
Spain in 1502. The castle and key anner was granted for use
recall that Gibraltar is both a fortress xclusively on land in 1983. Like the
and, because of its position on one side adge it depicts a red fortress with a
of a narrow strait, also the key to the old key. The red and white field is
Mediterranean Sea. erived from the arms.
The coat of arms dates from 1909, Adopted for the Pitcairn Islands in
although its origin is unknown. It 984, the badge commemorates the
shows a woman in green holding a sland’s earliest settlers, the infamous
cross and a harp. The cross is for rew of HMS Bounty, who mutinied
Christianity and the woman and harp n 1790. The badge is blue to
recall Irish immigrants who settled epresent the Pacific Ocean, with a
on the island in 1632. The arms were reen triangle symbolizing the island.
re-adopted in 1962 when the West The shield is charged with the Bible
Indies Federation was dissolved. nd the anchor of HMS Bounty.
The current badge was made into a coat The blue ensign was granted in 1968,
of arms in 1984. It depicts a ship flying hree years after the arms. The shield
the Cross of St. George sailing between rom the arms shows a conch-shell and a
two cliffs. Above is a wire-bird rayfish representing fishing, the islands’
representing the local fauna. The flag is main industry, and a cactus for their
also flown in the Ascension Islands and ora. The Turks and Caicos became a
Tristan da Cunha, dependencies eparate colony after the Bahamas
administered by St. Helena. chieved independence.
130
Europe
France
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: February 15, 1794 Usage: National and Civil
Overseas Territories
These islands lie just south of Canada’s Red and white are local colors. The
Newfoundland. The flag features the emblem depicts a pirogue—a local
emblems of the Basques, Bretons, and canoe—below a rising sun. The five
Normans who settled the islands. crew recall the five island groups.
131
Europe
Luxembourg
Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: 1848 Usage: National
Europe
"ELGIUM 'ERMANY
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For most of the 19th century Luxembourg was
part of the Netherlands. It gained independence in
&RANCE
1890 and is Europe’s last independent duchy.
Luxembourg had no flag until 1830, coloring was derived from the Grand
when patriots were urged to display Duke’s coat of arms, which dates
the national colors. The flag was from the 13th century.
defined as a horizontal tricolor of red,
white and blue in 1848, but it was not THE CIVIL ENSIGN
officially adopted until 1972. The Since 1972 a banner of the Grand
tricolor flag is almost identical to that Duke’s arms has been used as a civil
of the Netherlands, except that it is ensign for use at sea. This is a blue
longer and its blue stripe is a lighter and white-striped field with a lion
shade. The red, white, and blue rampant in the center.
LUXEMBOURG
CIVIL ENSIGN
Red, white, and blue
coloring gave rise to
colors of national flag
A crowned two-tailed
lion rampant
132
Europe
Monaco
Ratio: 4:5 Adopted: April 4, 1881 Usage: National and Civil
Europe
&RANCE
)TALY
The Grimaldis, a Genoese family, have ruled
-/.!#/ Monaco since the 13th century. Until 1860, the
principality was considered part of Italy.
The present bicolor design was and consists of a shield supported
adopted in 1881 under Prince by two monks bearing swords.
Charles III. It is identical to the far The device alludes to the legend
younger Indonesian national flag of 1297, in which the Grimaldis
except in its statutory proportions conquered Monaco after entering
which are 4:5, compared to 2:3. the city with soldiers disguised as
The Grimaldi coat of arms, which monks. Earlier Monegasque flags
appears on the state flag, is the incorporated the Grimaldi shield
traditional one of the princely family and crown on a white field.
133
Europe
Andorra
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: July 10, 1996 Usage: National and Civil
Andorran
coat of arms
Europe
&RANCE
The Principality of Andorra is an independent
!.$/22! republic in the Pyrenees, between France and Spain.
3PAIN
It is one of the world’s oldest states.
The principality of Andorra has ARMS OF ANDORRA
been under Franco-Spanish Like the colors of the flag, the
protection since 1278, governed by coat of arms also depicts the areas on
the Counts of Foix and the Bishops which Andorra has been dependent.
of Urgel. The colors of its national The quartered shield represents
flag reflect both France: blue and Urgel by the crozier and mitre,
red; and Spain: yellow and red. The Foix by the three vertical red stripes,
Andorran coat of arms is placed in Catalonia by the four vertical red
the middle of the yellow stripe. stripes and Béarn by the two cows.
ARMS OF ANDORRA
134
Europe
Portugal
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: June 30, 1911 Usage: National and Civil
Europe
&RANCE
During the 15th and 16th centuries, Portugal
0/2
2 5'!,
245
3PAIN
played a leading role in discovering the world
beyond Europe. It formed a republic in 1910.
The present flag with red for shield was first used by King Sancho
revolution and green for Portuguese I. The five blue shields recall the
exploration dates from 1910. The victory of King Afonso Henriques
central emblem is an armillary over five Muslim princes. The red
sphere, an early navigational edge and castles are from the
instrument, on which is the former marriage of King Alfonso III to a
royal arms of Portugal. The white Spanish princess in 1252.
EMBLEM OF PORTUGAL
This armillary sphere
and shields appear in the
Five blue shields recall center of the Portuguese
the victory of King coat of arms
Afonso Henriques
135
Europe
Spain
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: July 19, 1927 Usage: National and Civil
Europe
&RANCE
Spain was united in the 15th century and rapidly
!NDORRA
! RA
0ORTU
TUGAAL
TU
30!).
became an imperial power. It lost most of its
-
-OROCCO
colonies during the 19th century.
Early Spanish flags were mostly THE SPANISH REPUBLIC
heraldic; some, like the flag of When Spain became a republic in
Castilla y León (see page 138) 1931, an equal horizontal tricolor in
survive today. red, yellow, and purple became the
In 1785 the King of Spain new flag. Purple was from the arms
adopted red and yellow, a of León. At the end of the Spanish
combination of colors then used by Civil War (1936-1939) the original
no other country, to distinguish flag was restored.
Spanish ships. The present pattern The state flag has the national
was finally established in 1927. arms set toward the hoist.
ARMS OF SPAIN
136
Europe
Regional flags
Although most of the flags were adopted recently, all are based on older models,
or traditional arms, displaying continuity with the past.
ANDALUSIA ARAGÓN
Adopted in 1918, but not confirmed until The stripes of Aragón date from the 14th
1983, the colors were those used during the entury. Tradition states that a King of
Napoleonic Wars. The coat of arms depicts Aragón drew bloodstained fingers over a
the Pillars of Hercules and the lions old shield. The flag was adopted in 1981.
of Cadiz.
ASTURIAS BALEARES
Blue is the color of the Virgin Mary. The The field is the same as the flag of Aragón,
cross is the Cross of Victory, a traditional o which the islands belonged in medieval
Asturian emblem. From it hang Greek mes. The canton is the emblem of Palma
letters, symbolizing Christ, the Beginning, e Majorca, the islands’ capital.
and the End.
This flag was first adopted in 1931 and The colors symbolize those of the Virgin
re-adopted in 1979. It is based on the Mary and the Papacy. They are also
Union Jack. Red recalls bloodshed, white hought to evoke the blue sea, the white
the Catholic faith, and green the Oak eaches, and the golden sun. It was adopted
of Guérnica. n 1989.
CANTAB
T RIA CASTILLA-LA
MANCHA
White and red are the traditional colors of Adopted in 1989, the deep red stripe
the area. The arms allude to the seafaring nd the castle are the emblem of
customs of the people and include an ancient Castile. The white panel is intended to
seal. The flag was adopted in 1981. ecall the surcoats worn by the soldiers
n the Crusades.
137
Europe
This flag has been used by Castilla y León The flag, adopted in 1932, has been used
since 1248. It depicts the union of Castilla nce the 13th century and has the same
(castle) and León (lion). It was adopted for rigin as that of Aragón. It was outlawed
the region in 1989. rom 1939 to 1975.
EXTREMADURA GALICIA
This flag was adopted in 1985, but the Based on a traditional Galician design,
colors are traditional regional colors. Green white and blue are the colors of the
is for fidelity, white for truth, and black Virgin Mary. The arms reflects loyalty
for courage. o the Catholic Church.
LA RIOJA MADRID
The upper red stripe was originally to The flag, adopted in 1983, is in the
be in the color of Rioja wine, but is raditional color of Castilla. The seven white
now simply red. The colors are taken tars, from the arms, are for the seven
from the arms. istricts of the region.
MURCIA NAVARRE
The four castles recall Murcia’s links with The red field and golden chains of Navarre
Castilla and the seven crowns, the seven ate from the 14th century. The current
regions of the province. ag was adopted in 1982.
VALENCIA
138
Europe
Italy
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: June 18, 1946 Usage: National
Europe
3WITZ
&RANCE
!USTRIA
!US
!USTRI
RI Italy was a collection of city states, dukedoms, and
monarchies before it became a unified nation in
1861. Italy became a republic in 1946.
The Italian tricolor comes from 1861. When the monarchy ended in
the standard designed by Napoleon 1946, the coat of arms of the House
during the Italian campaign of of Savoy was removed from the flag.
1796. The coloring was influenced The present flag was officially
by the French Tricolore, at first adopted in 1946.
appearing in horizontal bands. The
vertical tricolor was introduced in ITALIAN CIVIL ENSIGN
1798, but was only used until 1814. The most famous seafaring states of
It was re-introduced when the new ancient Italy are commemorated in
Kingdom of Italy was formed in the quarters of the civil ensign.
139
Europe
Malta
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: September 21, 1964 Usage: National
Europe
)TALY
'REECE
Malta was ruled successively by the Knights of
-!,4! St.John of Jerusalem, by Napoleon, and by Britain.
4UNI
UNI
NISIA
NI
It became independent in 1964.
A key stronghold during the medal was added to the shield in
Crusades, much of the heraldry of 1943. It was awarded to the islanders
Malta is influenced by the colors and by King George VI of Britain for
devices of the Knights of Malta. heroism in World War II. In 1964,
Their badge was the characteristic the blue canton on which the cross
Maltese cross and their arms was a was originally placed was replaced by
white cross on a red field. From these a red fimbriation.
colors came the red and white The President’s flag, introduced in
shield that was used during the 1988, has the shield on a blue field,
colonial period. The George Cross with a Maltese cross in each corner.
140
Europe
Vatican City
Ratio: 1:1 Adopted: June 7, 1929 Usage: Civil
Europe
)TALY
6!4)#!
)#!
#!.
#!
Vatican City, the Holy See of the Roman
#)49 Catholic Church, is the smallest independent state
in the world.
The modern Vatican colors were first the flag as yellow and white, are the
adopted as the papal colors in 1808. colors of the keys of St. Peter, which
The flag was used until 1870 when have accompanied papal arms since
the Papal States were incorporated the Middle Ages. The flag’s white
into a new unified Italy. In 1929, the stripe bears an emblem used since the
Papal States were granted 13th century to represent the
independent status, but their Vatican’s role as the headquarters of
authority was confined to Vatican the Roman Catholic Church.
City. Gold and iron, represented in
141
Europe
San Marino
Ratio: 4:5 Adopted: April 6, 1862 Usage: National and Civil
Blue recalls
the sky
Europe
3!.
Founded in the 4th century, the Republic of
-!2)./
-!
San Marino is one of the smallest and oldest in the
)TALY
world. It lies on the slopes of Mt. Titano in Italy.
The flag of San Marino dates back The traditional coat of arms is
to 1797 and was recognized by placed in the center of the flag for
Napoleon as that of an independent official purposes only. It depicts
state in 1799. The colors were taken three white towers crowned with
from the coat of arms and were ostrich plumes, representing three
introduced in the 18th century. Blue citadels resting on the peak of Mt.
is said to represent the sky over San Titano, which was once vaned with
Marino and white the clouds and ostrich feathers. They symbolize the
snow on Mt. Titano. state’s ability to defend itself.
A wreath of laurel
The motto “Libertas,”
meaning “Liberty,” A wreath of oak
also dates back to the
4th century, when the The towers represent the
state was established as three citadels, Guaita,
a refuge for those fleeing Cesta, and Montale,
religious persecution situated on Mt. Titano
142
Europe
Switzerland
Ratio: 1:1 Adopted: December 12, 1889 Usage:National and Civil
Europe
&RANCE
'ERMANY
!U TR
!USTRIA
In 1291, a small confederation was formed to resist
37)4:%2,!.$
:%2,!.$ Austrian rule, beginning modern Switzerland.
)TALY
More cantons joined up to 1815.
The flag of Switzerland is one of the distinguish the soldiers of the
most typical European flags. In Confederation from other soldiers,
medieval times many European and became the accepted flag of the
states used a plain flag with a cross. Confederation in 1480. It was not
officially confirmed as the flag of
A FLAG FOR THE CONFEDERATION Switzerland until 1848 and it was last
For many years, the separate cantons regulated in 1889.
of Switzerland had no one common Apart from that of the Vatican, the
flag, but were each represented by Swiss flag is the only totally square
their own flags. The present flag of national flag. However, when used
Switzerland, a white couped cross on on the Swiss lakes it has the ratio of
a red field, was based on that of 2:3; a practice adopted in 1941.
Schwyz, one of the three original
provinces which united into a THE NATIONAL ARMS
confederation against the Holy The coat of arms is simply a shield in
Roman Empire in 1291. It became the form of the flag. It was officially
accepted as the common badge of the adopted in 1889. Every town or
Confederation in 1339 at the Battle commune in Switzerland has its own
of Laupen, when it was used to flag and coat of arms.
143
Europe
Adopted in 1803, the white waves on Adopted in 1597 when the canton
black represent the River Aare, and the eparated from the Inner-Rhoden, the
white stars on blue, the districts of ag retained the bear, but added the
Baden, the Free Areas, and Fricktal, nitials VR (for Ussroden). The bear
which came together to form the ates back to medieval banners. It
canton. In 1963 it was decreed that the was used from 1403 in battles against
stars should be arranged 2 and 1. eudal landlords.
This is the original form of the flag Basel-Land separated from the City
before the partition from Appenzell n 1832. The arms and flag were
Ausser-Rhoden in 1597. The bear dopted in 1834 based on the form of
emblem was widely used locally in the rozier used in Liestal, with the crook
Middle Ages, and was taken by the urned to the right and decorated
Appenzellers from the arms of the abbey with small spheres. This was made
of Sankt Gallen. fficial in 1947.
BASEL-STA
T DT BERN
The emblem of Basel-Stadt is the The coat of arms dates back to the
headpiece of a bishop’s crozier. The 2th century. Soon after which the
emblem dates back to the earliest rms, which depict a bear on a red
days of heraldry. Since the 15th eld with a yellow diagonal, became
century it has been depicted as he canton’s banner. There have,
black on white. It was kept in this owever, been many variant forms
form when the canton was divided hrough the ages. The bear represents
in 1832. he name of the canton.
144
Europe
FRIBOURG GENEVA
The original colors of Fribourg, black and The eagle recalls the former Holy Roman
white, were re-adopted when it joined the mpire. The key is the Key of St. Peter, and
Confederation in 1831, but date back to hows Geneva as the key to western
1410 and are related to the coat of arms. witzerland. The flag was adopted in 1815.
GLARUS GRAUBUNDEN
The flag of Glarus depicts the figure The flag includes symbols for the three
of St. Fridolin, the patron saint of the riginal parts of the canton which united in
canton, on a red field. The flag was he 15th century: Graubunden,
adopted when the canton joined the Zehgerichtenbund, and the Gotteshausbund.
Confederation in 1352.
URA LUCERNE
This flag was adopted 1978, when ucerne was the first canton, after the
Jura became a separate canton. It was riginal three, to join the Confederation
formerly part of Basel-Land—recalled n 1332. Its flag has the colors of
by the crozier—and Bern. The stripes s shield arranged horizontally instead
are from the arms of Jura. f vertically.
NEUCHÂTEL NIDWALDEN
The tricolor adopted in 1848 is in traditional The key with two wards is the emblem
colors. The white cross was added to show f St. Peter, and was used in the 15th
the canton’s association with Switzerland. entury. It was retained when the canton
ivided in 1815.
145
Europe
The red and white flag was used in The emblems of Sankt Gallen—an ax
Obwalden from the 13th century and it nd a fasces—were adopted in 1803
was adopted when the separate canton was when the canton was formed under
formed in 1815. Further to this, a key was rench influence. They are both
added in 1816. ymbols of republicanism.
SCHAFFHAUSEN SCHW YZ
The emblem has been in use since the chwyz was one of the first three
14th century. It depicts a ram (the “sheep” antons, and the one from which the
of the town’s name) on a yellow field. ountry takes its name. Its arms
The flag’s existence was first recorded as xisted before the Confederation was
early as 1386. ormed in 1291.
SOLOTHURN THURGAU
The coat of arms dates back to 1394 and has The flag of Thurgau, adopted in
colors derived from those of the 803, depicts two gold lions
Confederation. The flag was originally red rranged diagonally. They are taken
with a white cross, but was simplified into rom the coat of arms which dates
its current form. rom medieval times.
TICINO URI
146
Europe
VALAIS VAUD
The modern flag of Valais is derived from The colors date from 1798 when the
that of the original republic, which had éman Republic was formed, and stand
seven stars for its component townships. or freedom. They were retained when
These were increased to 12 in 1802 and he state entered the Confederation in
retained when the state joined the 803. The motto is “Liberté et Patrie”
Confederation in 1814. “Freedom and Fatherland”).
ZUG ZÜRICH
Zug joined the Confederation in 1352 The flag in this case preceded the arms
and again in 1364, after a brief return nd dates back to the 13th century. It
to Habsburg rule. The colors of the was adopted in 1351 when Zürich
flag were originally red-white-red of oined the Confederation. However
Austria, but were altered to the blue and nce 1957 it has been compulsory to
white from the arms of the Counts of epict the flag in the same format as
Lenzburg in 1352. he shield.
147
Europe
Liechtenstein
Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: June 24, 1937 Usage: National and Civil
Europe
,)%#(4%.34%).
% 4%
The Principality of Liechtenstein was created in
3WITZERLAND
!USTRIA
1719 as part of the Holy Roman Empire. It gained
full independence in 1806.
The red and blue of Liechtenstein’s vertically or horizontally, but the
flag date from 1921. There was crown always remains upright.
confusion at the 1936 Olympic
Games in Berlin because the flag THE PRINCE’S FLAG
was very similar to that of Haiti. In The arms of Silesia, Künringen,
1937 the crown was introduced to Troppau, and East Friesland and
the flag of Liechtenstein to establish Rietburg make up the four quarters
the country’s status as a principality of the shield of the Prince’s arms, in
and to distinguish it from the the center of his flag. They represent
Haitian flag. The flag can be hung the noble ancestors of the prince.
148
Europe
Austria
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: May 1, 1945 Usage: National and Civil
Europe
#ZECH 2EP
'ERMANY Austria once ruled much of central Europe, but
3WITZ
WITZZ
!5342)! (U(UNG lost most of its territory in 1919. Between 1938 and
)TALY 3L
3LOVENIA
A
1945 Austria was annexed to Germany.
Tradition states that a Duke of During World War II, the Austrian
Austria once fought so fiercely in flag and arms were banned, they
battle that the white surcoat he wore were restored in 1945.
was soaked in blood, except for the
part covered by his sword-belt. So he ARMS OF AUSTRIA
adopted red with a white band across The coat of arms depicts an imperial
the center as his colors. black eagle, an emblem used by the
Habsburgs. It originally had two
ONE OF THE WORLD’S OLDEST FLAGS heads, but they were changed to
The story is probably apocryphal, one when the Habsburg Empire
but stripes of red-white-red have disintegrated. On the eagle’s chest
been an emblem of Austria for over is a shield in the national colors.
800 years. Their use on a flag was The eagle holds a hammer and sickle
recorded in 1191, making the recalling agricultural and industrial
Austrian flag one of the world’s workers. Its crown, with three
oldest flags. It was officially adopted turrets, also represents agriculture,
as the national flag after the fall of industry, and commerce. The broken
the Habsburg Dynasty, and the chains on the eagle’s feet symbolize
formation of a republic in 1918. the restoration of freedom.
149
Europe
BURGENLAND CARINTHIA
The colors of the flag, officially hoisted Adopted in 1946, the colors are derived
in 1971, are based on the red eagle and rom those of Austria and the yellow
yellow shield of the arms. tate shield.
Adopted in 1954, the colors are based The flag, adopted in 1921, uses the
on the arms which contain a blue shield raditional colors of the state, based
and five gold eagles. n the national colors.
ST YRIA T YROL
The coat of arms of Styria is a green shield The bicolored flag is derived from
bearing a white lion. The flag, adopted in he arms which depicts a red eagle on
1960, uses these colors. white disc. It was adopted in 1945.
Upper Austria’s flag, adopted in 1949, The flag dates from 1946. It is based on the
is derived from the national colors ity’s arms, but is identical to the flags of
and the arms of the province. alzburg and Vorarlberg.
VORARLBERG
150
Europe
Hungary
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 1, 1957 Usage: National and Civil
Red symbolizes
strength
White represents
faithfulness
Green is symbolic
of hope
Europe
!USTRIAA
3LOVAKIA 5KR
Part of Austria-Hungary until 1918,
(5.'!29 Hungary became part of the communist
2
2OMANIA
#ROATIA
I 3ERB A
3ERBIA bloc from 1945–1989.
The current flag was first used in national flag. During Hungary’s
the 1848–49 uprising. Its pattern brief period as a republic from
was derived from the French 1945–1949 the royal crown was
Tricolore used during the French replaced by the “Kossuth” coat of
Revolution. The colors: red, white, arms. When the Communists
and green date back to the 9th took power, they added a Soviet-
century. They were first used in style emblem to the flag. In 1990,
1608 during the reign of King the arms of the kingdom were
Matthias II. Until 1945, the royal re-adopted but they were not
crown featured in the center of the replaced on the flag.
ARMS OF HUNGARY
151
Europe
Czech Republic
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: March 30, 1920 Usage: National and Civil
Europe
0OLAND The Czech Republic was part of Austria until
#:%#( 2%05",)# 1919, when it merged with Slovakia to form
'ER
!USTRIA 3L
3LOVAKIA
Czechoslovakia. The states separated in 1993.
The first flag of Czechoslovakia was THE NEW CZECH REPUBLIC
based on the arms, and was white When the Czech Republic and
over red. This was identical to the Slovakia separated in 1993, the
flag of Poland, so a blue triangle was Czechs decided to keep their
added at the hoist. The flag was existing flag, recalling the two
banned by the Nazis in 1938 and a principal parts of the country.
horizontal tricolor of white, red, and The greater coat of arms depicts
blue was enforced. The original flag a quartered shield reflecting the
was restored in 1949. regions of the Czech Republic.
GREATER ARMS OF
THE CZECH REPUBLIC
The red and white eagle
The white lion on a red on a blue field is from
field is the traditional the arms of Moravia
emblem of Bohemia
152
Europe
Slovakia
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: September 1, 1992 Usage: National and Civil
The arms of
Slovakia
Europe
#ZECH
2EP
0OLAND
Under Hungarian rule until 1919, Slovakia then
3,/6!+)!
!US
S
5
5KR formed part of Czechoslovakia with the Czech
(UNGARY
Republic. The two states separated in 1993.
The first Slovak flags, used during ARMS OF SLOVA
V KIA
the 19th century, were like the The arms uses colors of the early
contemporary Russian flag, to whom flags, a white patriarchal cross rising
they looked for aid in gaining from blue mountains on a red shield.
independence. As Czechoslovakia, At independence in 1993, the red,
a red and white flag with a blue white and blue tricolor was retained
triangle was used. During World War as the national flag, but the arms was
II, Slovakia re-adopted the white, placed toward the hoist.
blue, and red tricolor, with the arms The President’s flag has the arms,
in the center. bordered by the national colors.
THE PRESIDENT’S
FLAG
The flag is bordered by A patriarchal cross
stripes in the national
colors; white, blue and red
A stylized image of
Slovakia’s mountains
153
Europe
Slovenia
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: June 24, 1991 Usage: National and Civil
Europe
!USTRIA
Historically under Austrian rule, Slovenia
)TALY 3,/6%.)!
#ROATIA
formed part of Yugoslavia in 1919. It declared
independence on June 26, 1991.
Like Slovakia, Slovenia looked to the order of the stripes (white, blue,
Russia in the 19th century for red). At independence Slovenia
assistance in gaining independence. placed its arms in the upper hoist of
For the same reason, the pan-Slavic this tricolor, to create a distinct
tricolor of blue, white, and red was national flag.
adopted for Yugoslavia, with a gold The arms depicts mountain peaks,
fimbriated red star added by Tito in above wavy blue lines symbolizing
1946. Slovenia also had its own flag the sea coast. The stars are from the
within Yugoslavia, distinguished by arms of the Duchy of Selje.
ARMS OF SLOVENIA
The three stars are from
the arms of the former
Duchy of Selje
154
Europe
Croatia
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: December 22, 1990 Usage: National and Civil
Arms of Croatia
Hungary
ngary
CROATIA
For much of its existence, Croatia was under
Austrian rule. It joined Yugoslavia in 1919, but
declared independence on June 25, 1991.
While part of Yugoslavia, Croatia’s Croatia retained its tricolor but a
flag was designed in the pan-Slavic gold-edged red star was placed in the
colors, red, white, and blue. These center by Tito. Before gaining
are also traditional Croatian colors independence, the present flag was
used in the 19th century. adopted, based on the one used
During World War II Croatia during the war.
became a semi-independent state and The shield is in the red and white
added the arms of Croatia to the checks of Croatia. Above is a row of
center of its flag. Following the war, shields of its various territories.
ARMS OF CROATIA
155
Europe
Europe
#ROATIA
IAA
"/3 / 3.)!
/33. 3ERBIA
Bosnia-Herzegovina was under Turkish rule
(%2:%' %'/6).!
%'
'/6).!
until it was ceded to Austria in 1878. From 1945
+OS
+OS
-ONTENEGRO
-ONT
ONTE GRO
ONT
to 1992 it formed part of Yugoslavia.
After Bosnia-Herzegovina had broken Croats and Serbs.
away from Yugoslavia in 1992, a In February 1998, the international
neutral plain white flag was adopted High Representative, who safeguards
by parliament. The country’s the peace in Bosnia-Herzegovina,
independence triggered a civil war imposed a new flag. However, it was
between the three ethnic groups— designed by a committee with
Muslims, Croats, and Serbs. After the members from all three ethnic groups.
Dayton, Ohio, peace agreement was The country is now divided
signed in 1995, the “neutral” Bosnian into two parts: the Bosnian-Croat
flag became unacceptable to the Federation and the Serb Republic.
156
Europe
Montenegro
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: 2004 Usage: National and Civil
The flag is
based on
one used in
the 1880s
and 1890s The modern
coat of arms of
Montenegro
Europe
#ROATIA
# IA
"OS
"OS
2OMANIA Montenegro united with Serbia and other states
(ERZ 3ERBIA
I
-/.4%.
4 %.%'2/
4%
4%.. %'2/
/
+OS
OS
in 1919, to form Yugoslavia. In 2006, Montenegro
"ULGARIA
!LBAN
AN
NIA -AC
C declared independence from Serbia.
Long an independent kingdom, In the communist state
Montenegro, like the other Yugoslav (1946-1991), the monogram was
states had used the Pan-Slav colors. replaced by a gold-edged red star.
Montenegro, like Serbia, inverted With the end of communist rule,
the Russian flag into a horizontal the star was removed. To distinguish
tricolor of red, blue, and white. In the flag from that of Serbia, the
1914 it was accepted that the royal blue was made lighter. In 2004 the
monogram of King Nikola should be present, and completely different,
added to the flag. flag was adopted.
157
Europe
Serbia
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: June 5, 2006 Usage: National and Civil
Citizens usually
use the flag
Coat of arms without the arms
appears on the
state flag
Europe
#ROATIA
# IA
"OS
"OS
2OMANIA Serbia was a kingdom, until conquered by the
(ERZ
-ON
3%2")!
N +OS "ULGARIA
Turks. It regained independence in the 19th century,
+
+OS
!LBAN
AN
NIA -ACC Yugoslavia united in 1919, but separated 1991-2006.
Like the other southern Slav states, of them. Under the communist state
Serbia used the Pan-Slav colors by (1946-1991), a gold-edged red star
inverting the Russian flag. This was added to the national flag and
example was followed by to the state flags. After 1991 the
Montenegro. When Yugoslavia star disappeared and the flag often
was formed, a flag was chosen of bore the Serbian coat of arms.
horizontal stripes of blue, white and This form became official after
red. This used the colors of the the final separation of Serbia and
states, in a different pattern from any Montenegro in 2006.
158
Europe
Kosovo
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: February 18, 2008 Usage: National and Civil
Europe
Croatia
C ia
Bos.
Romania Formerly part of Yugoslavia and then Serbia, Kosovo
& Herz. Serbia
Mon.n
KOSOVO
SO came under United Nations administration in 1999.
Bulgaria
Alban
niia Mac.
c Kosovo declared independence in February, 2008.
In 1459, the Ottoman Turks destroyed would unite with Albania. Serbia
the first Serbian kingdom in a battle in opposed this idea. In 1999, violence
modern Kosovo. Although the country flared between Kosovars and Serbs.
was ceded to Serbia in 1913, the NATO forces intervened to stop
majority of Kosovars are Albanian in Serbian attacks. In the uneasy peace
language and culture, but the site of the which followed, there were negotiations
battle is sacred to the Serbs. under the United Nations. These failed
When Yugoslavia broke apart in the and in 2008 Kosovo controversially
1990s, many Kosovans hoped that they declared its independence.
ARMS OF KOSOVO
159
Europe
Albania
Ratio: 5:7 Adopted: April 7, 1992 Usage: National
Europe
Kosovo
v
Montenegr
negro
negr
eg
Once part of the Byzantine Empire, Albania
Macedonia
iaa
ALBAN
N IIA
Italy
became a kingdom in 1912. From 1944 to 1991
Greece
it was a strict communist state.
The black eagle first appeared on the were included on the flag after the
Albanian flag in the 15th century invasion of 1939, but the original flag
when Albania became part of the was restored in 1942.
Byzantine Empire. According to In 1946, the flag changed again,
legend, the Albanians are the to incorporate a gold-edged red star
descendants of the eagle. The red above the eagle, representing the
flag, with the eagle in the center, was communist regime. The star was
adopted in 1912, when independence removed in 1991, by order of the
was restored. Parts of the Italian arms new multiparty government.
ARMS OF ALBANIA
160
Europe
Macedonia
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: October 5, 1995 Usage: National and Civil
Europe
+OSOVOO 3ERBIA
3ERBIIA
"ULGARIA Macedonia was under Turkish rule for centuries.
-!#%$/.)!
It united with Serbia in 1913 and became part of
!LBANIA 'REECE
Yugoslavia. It declared independence in 1992.
As part of Yugoslavia, Macedonia was changed to the Star of Vergina, an
the only region not to use the pan- ancient Macedonian emblem from
Slavic colors. Its flag was red with a the tomb of Philip of Macedon,
gold-edged red star in the canton. father of Alexander the Great. Greece
objected to this, claiming the star as a
A CONTROVERSIAL NEW FLAG Greek emblem. In 1995 the star was
At independence in 1992, Macedonia replaced by a radiant sun.
retained the red flag but added a gold Macedonia’s arms is similar in
star in a gold sun. This was soon design to former Soviet emblems.
ARMS OF MACEDONIA
The star of socialism
Symmetrical
wreaths of wheat
A radiant sun, also used
on the national flag
161
Europe
Bulgaria
Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: November 22, 1990 Usage: National and Civil
Europe
3ERBIA
2OMANIA
Bulgaria became independent in 1908 after
"5,'!2)!
500 years of Ottoman rule. In 1990, the communist
-AC
'REECE 4URKEYY
regime, in power since 1946, collapsed.
While under Turkish rule, Bulgaria of arms was added in the white
had no national flag. When it stripe near the hoist. This depicted a
became a principality in 1878, a rampant lion, a red star representing
slight variation of the pan-Slavic communism, and later a cog-wheel
colors, widely used during the symbolizing industrialization.
independence movements of the The coat of arms was removed
late 19th century, was adopted. from the flag in 1990 because of its
The horizontal arrangement of the communist connotations. No arms
tricolor was based on the Russian now appear on the flag.
flag at the time, but for Bulgaria’s
national flag the central blue stripe THE SYMBOLISM OF THE COLORS
was substituted by green. Although based on the pan-Slavic
colors, the white band is said to
THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC represent a love of peace, and red,
No change was made to the flag the valor of the people. The green
during Bulgaria’s period as an stripe, substituted for the traditional
independent kingdom 1908–1946, pan-Slavic blue in 1878, was
but with the formation of the intended to represent the
People’s Republic in 1947, a coat youthfulness of the emerging nation.
162
Europe
Greece
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: 1822 Usage: National and Civil
163
Europe
Romania
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: December 27, 1989 Usage: National and Civil
Europe
(UNGARY
Y
-OL
-OLDOVA Romania emerged from the Ottoman Empire as
2/-!.)!
an independent kingdom in 1859. It is now a
3ERBIAA
3
"ULGARIA
L democracy, after decades of communist rule.
The current flag was created in was jettisoned following the fall of
1848 by combining the colors of the Ceausescu regime in 1989.
Wallachia and Moldavia–the
Ottoman provinces that made up NEW NATIONAL ARMS
Romania. In 1867 the Royal Arms In 1992, the old coat of arms was
was set in the yellow stripe. The restored by the new parliament. It
coat of arms was modified many features a combination of motifs
times and in 1948 it was replaced which look back to Romania’s past
with a communist emblem. This as a powerful medieval state.
ARMS OF ROMANIA
164
Europe
Moldova
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: May 12, 1990 Usage: National and Civil
The blue,
yellow and red
colors reflect
strong links
with Romania
The arms of
Moldova
Europe
5KRAINE Moldova was once part of Romania, but was
-/,$/6!
/,$/6
2OMANIA incorporated into the Soviet Union in 1940.
It has been fully independent since 1991.
The blue, red, and yellow tricolor of the Moldovan arms, adopted in 1990,
Moldova is almost identical the features a golden eagle holding an
Romanian flag, reflecting the two Orthodox Christian cross in its beak.
countries’ cultural affinity. However instead of a sword, the eagle
is holding an olive branch. The blue
ARMS OF MOLDOVA
V and red shield on the eagle’s breast is
On Moldova’s flag the yellow stripe also different–on it are an ox-head,
is charged with the national arms. a star, a rose, and a crescent, all
Like the Romanian coat of arms, traditional symbols of Moldova.
ARMS OF MOLDOVA
V An eagle holds an
Orthodox cross,
similar to that in the
A star arms of Romania
A rose An ox-head
165
Europe
Belarus
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: May 16, 1995 Usage: National and Civil
A national ornament
representing woven cloth
Europe
,ITHUANIA
,ITHU
UA
2USS &ED Belarus, formerly White Russia, became
0OLAND
"%,!253
independent of the USSR in 1991, although its
5KRAINE
ties with Russia are increasing once more.
The original flag of Belarus while were derived from the arms of the
under Soviet administration in 1922 republic. The design was rejected in
was similar to that of the USSR. It a referendum in 1995.
was changed in 1951, and the flag The flag of Belarus adopted
used today is similar to this second following the referendum, reflects
flag, except that the communist its growing ties with Russia. The
hammer, sickle, and star have been unusual ornamentation in the hoist
removed, and the red and white is described as a national ornament
portions of the hoist ornamentation and represents woven cloth.
have been reversed.
ARMS OF BELARUS
THE REJECTED DESIGN The Soviet-style coat of arms,
Following independence from the retained on independence, also
USSR in 1991, Belarus adopted a reflects the dominant Russian
flag of three equal horizontal stripes influence. This depicts an outline
of white-red-white. This was the of the state against a sun rising
same flag which had been associated from behind a globe. This is
with a brief period of Belarussian entirely surrounded by wreaths
independence in 1918 and its colors of wheat and flowers.
166
Europe
Ukraine
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: September 4, 1991 Usage: National and Civil
Originally
the flag of the
republic in 1918
Blue represents
the sky
Europe
0OLAN
ND
5+2!).%
2USS
&ED
& Ukraine formed an independent state in 1918, but
came under Soviet control one year later and
remained so until independence in 1991.
The bicolored flag flown in Ukraine the Soviet Union. When Ukraine
today was the official flag of the gained its independence in 1991 the
country in 1918 when Ukraine country re-adopted its original flag.
enjoyed a brief period of The blue is supposed to represent the
independence. With the invasion sky and the yellow the vast fields of
of the Red Army, the flag was grain of the country’s agriculture.
suppressed until the German The Ukrainian coat of arms is in
occupation of 1941–1944. After the national colors and features an
the war it was banned again by ancient trident symbol.
ARMS OF UKRAINE
167
Europe
Russian Federation
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: August 22, 1991 Usage: National and Civil
168
Europe
Republic flags
Unlike most other countries, the flags of the Russian republics are all new, adopted since 1991.
ADYGEYA
Y ALTA
TAY
Designed by a British traveler who lue represents the cleanliness of the sky,
helped resist annexation of the mountains, rivers, and lakes of Altay.
republic by Russia, the arrows are for White is for eternity, and to encourage
resistance. Green is for agriculture he revival of love and harmony between
and gold is for freedom. he Altay people.
BASHKORTOSTA
T N BURYA
Y TIYA
Y
Blue is for charity and virtue; white lue is for the sky and water; white for
for openness and willingness; green urity; yellow for freedom and
for freedom and eternal life. The rosperity. The Soembo—the moon,
kuraii flower represents the seven races un and hearth—recall reconciliation,
of the Bashkir people. amily life, and hospitality.
CHECHENIA CHUVASHIA
Green is for Islam. Red is for the blood The red base is the Chuvash land, from
shed for freedom. White is the road which grows the “Tree of Life.” The three
leading to the future and the gold is uns are an ancient Chuvash emblem. Gold
the national ornament. for the future and prosperity.
DAGHESTA
T N NGUSHETIA
The upper green stripe is for The stripe is for the pure intentions
agriculture and hope. The blue nd actions of the people and green is
stripe is for the Caspian Sea which or nature, fertility and Islam. The “sun”
borders the republic. Red represents epresents peace and creativity and its color
fidelity and courage. he people’s struggles.
169
Europe
K ABARDINO- K ALMYKIA
BALK ARIA
The flag’s colors evoke the blue sky, the The vibrant yellow is symbolic of the faith
white snow-capped mountains, and the f the people of Kalmykia and also
green prairies of Kabardino-Balkaria. In epresents the sun warming their land.
the center is a stylized representation of The blue circle signifies the eternal road
the Elbrus Mountains. o the sacred lotus in the center.
K ARACHAY- K ARELIA
CHERKESSIA
Blue symbolizes peace, kind motives, and The many lakes of Karelia are recalled by
quiet. Green represents nature, fertility, and he central blue stripe and its vast pine
wealth. Red is for the warmth and unity of orests by green. The red stripe symbolizes
the people. The mountains in the center warmth, unity and continuing cooperation
recall the scenery of the republic. etween the peoples of Karelia.
The horizontal white, blue, and red stripes The three colors of the flag recall the
are taken from the Russian national flag. epublic’s northerly location in blue, its
The vertical green stripe is for eternal life orests in green, and its snows in white.
and is charged with an ancient Khakassian They are also symbolic of virtues such
solar symbol. s cleanliness, unity, and purity.
MARIY EL MORDVINIA
The colors are adapted from the Russian The flag of Mordvinia was adopted in 1995,
national flag, with altered shades to nd has the same colors as the Russian flag.
make them distinctive. The central n the center is the sun emblem also found
stylised representation of the sun is the n the flags of Mariy El and Udmurtia.
national emblem.
170
Europe
NORTH OSSETIA T
TATARSTA N
White symbolizes spirituality and The upper green stripe of the flag represents
cleanliness of intentions. Yellow represents he majority Muslim Tatar population of
the region’s farming. The red stripe recalls Tatarstan. The lower red stripe is for the
both the Aryan people and their militant Russian minority. The white fimbriation
spirit in pursuit of freedom. epresents the peace that unites them.
TUVA UDMURTIA
The original Tuvan flag adopted in 1918 The eight-pointed solar sign in the center of
was also blue, yellow, and white. Today, he flag is said to guard the people from
the colors are said to represent courage misfortune. The earth and stability are
and strength in blue, prosperity in ymbolized in black, morality and the
yellow, and purity in white. osmos in white, and life and the sun in red.
YAKUTIA
171
Asia
Azerbaijan
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: February 5, 1991 Usage: National and Civil
Asia
2USS
'EORGIA
&ED
&ED Azerbaijan has been under consecutive Persian,
!RMENIA
!:%2"!)*!.
!:%2"!) Ottoman, and Russian influence. It was part of the
)RAN
USSR from 1920, until independence in 1991.
The flag dates back to the brief flag’s star stand for the eight groups of
period of Azerbaijani independence Turkic-speaking peoples—the Azeris,
between 1918–1920 and replaces the Ottomans, Jagatais, Tatars, Kipchaks,
one used in the Soviet era. The white Seljuks and Turkomans.
crescent and eight-pointed star were
intentionally similar to the emblem THE NATIONAL ARMS
on the Turkish flag, as Turkey has The coat of arms, adopted in 1993,
traditionally been an ally of the is set on a round shield in the colors
country. The eight points on the of the flag.
ARMS OF AZERBAIJAN
The star has eight points,
The flame at each representing one of
the star’s center the eight Turkic peoples
symbolizes a new era
172
Asia
Armenia
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: August 24, 1990 Usage: National and Civil
Red recalls
Blue is for Armenian
hope and the blood spilled
Armenian during the
skies struggle for
independence
Asia
'EORGIA
!ZERBAIJAN
Armenia became a Soviet republic in 1922. In
!2-%.)!
-%.)!
4URKEY
1991 it gained independence from the USSR and
!Z )RAN
in 1995 held its first parliamentary elections.
Armenia was independent from ARMS OF ARMENIA
1920–1921, and the flag used today In 1991, the arms of 1920 replaced
comes from this era. Its origin is in the Soviet coat of arms. The four
a design from the Armenian emblems within the shield each
Institute in Venice of 1885, although represent an Armenian royal dynasty.
this flag used the colors red-green- In the center is a stylized image of
blue. After independence from Mount Ararat. The shield
Russia in 1991, the Soviet flag was is supported by an eagle and a
replaced by the 1920 tricolor of red- lion, common symbols in
blue-orange. Armenian heraldry.
ARMS OF ARMENIA
173
Asia
Turkey
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: June 5, 1936 Usage: National and Civil
!RMENIA
!R
'EORGI
RGI
GIA
G Following Turkey’s defeat in the World War I,
452+%9
)RAN
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk deposed the Sultan in
3YRIAA
3
)RAQ
1922, and declared the country a republic in 1923.
Turkey’s flag dates from 1844, the early 19th century it usually had
although similar red flags were the five seen today. In 1936, the
used as early as the 17th century national flag and all the other flags
within the Ottoman Empire. From used in Turkey today were fully
1920–1923, when Turkey became defined and specified.
a republic, all the emblems of the
Sultan were abolished and the flag A PAN-ISLAMIC SYMBOL
became the main emblem. The crescent and star has become an
emblem of the pan-Islamic movement
THE CRESCENT AND STAR
T sponsored by Turkey in the late 19th
Using the crescent and star emblems century and these symbols are now
together is a relatively recent device, widely used on the flags and national
but the crescent on its own dates arms of Muslim countries.
back to the Middle Ages. It is a Turkey does not have a coat
symbol associated with Islam and of arms, but there are individual
also with Osman, the founder of flags for the President and senior
the Ottoman Empire. The star members of the Turkish navy.
first appeared on the flag in 1793. These also contain the traditional
Initially it had eight points, but by crescent and star.
174
Asia
Georgia
Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: January 14, 2004 Usage:National and Civil
Smaller crosses,
Red cross, typical of possibly based on the
St. George, Georgia’s “Jerusalem” cross
patron saint
Asia
2USSIAN &EDERATION
Georgia was absorbed into the Russian Empire in
'%/2')! 1801 and became part of the Soviet Union in 1921.
4URKEY !RMENIA
! ENIA
I
It regained independence in 1991.
During the “Rose Revolution” of St. George is the patron saint of
2003, the Georgian flag achieved Georgia, perhaps explaining the
prominence as the symbol of the basic red cross on a white field.
opposition National Movement.
On taking power in 2004 the party THE SOVIET ERA
adopted it as the new national flag. While part of the USSR, Georgia
flew a variant of the Red Flag,
OBSCURE ORIGINS adopted in 1951. It had a red field,
The historical background of the flag with a thin blue stripe close to the
is uncertain. References are made in top. The canton contained the
a 14th-century text to a similar flag traditional hammer, sickle, and star
from Sivas, in modern Turkey. emblems, unusually in red, on a blue
Georgians may have adopted it after disc from which emanated 24 rays.
invading the territory. Following independence from the
Another theory suggests Georgian USSR in 1991, Georgia officially
links with the Holy Land saw the re-adopted a flag used during its brief
addition of the four small crosses. independence between 1918 and
These were based on the “Jerusalem” 1921. The field was deep red, with
cross. However, it is true that black and white stripes in the canton.
175
Asia
Lebanon
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: December 7, 1943 Usage: National
176
Asia
Syria
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: March 29, 1980 Usage: National and Civil
ARMS OF SYRIA
The hawk was the
emblem of the Quraish
The shield is tribe to which the Prophet
in the form of a Muhammad belonged
national flag
177
Asia
Cyprus
Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: August 16, 1960 Usage: National and Civil
Neutral and
peaceful symbols
were chosen to
represent the The copper-colored
country island recalls the
origins of the
country’s name
Asia
4URKEY
In 1960, Cyprus gained independence after almost
#90253
3YRIA 100 years of British rule. In 1974, the island was
,EBANO
NO
NON
partitioned, following an invasion by Turkey.
Founded in 1193, the Kingdom of THE ISLE OF COPPER
Cyprus experienced centuries of The map of the island on the flag
conflict. Cyprus was conquered by is copper-colored, to express the
the Ottoman Empire in 1571, meaning of the island’s name—
which increased Turkish settlement the Isle of Copper. The two olive
on the island. It then fell under branches on the white field
British control from 1878. The flag, represent peace between the two
adopted at independence in 1960, ethnic groups.
deliberately chose peaceful and
neutral symbols in an attempt to THE NATIONAL EMBLEM
indicate harmony between the rival Cyprus’s national emblem is a
Greek and Turkish communities, an dove holding an olive branch in
ideal that has not been realized. its beak. This is a symbol of peace
In 1974, Turkish forces occupied and reconciliation arising from
the northern part of the island, the biblical story of Noah and the
forming the “Turkish Republic of Ark. The dove is also symbolic
Northern Cyprus.” The two parts of of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess
the island also fly the national flags whose legend originated from
of Greece and Turkey. the island.
178
Asia
Israel
Ratio: 8:11 Adopted: October 28, 1948 Usage: National
Asia
,EBANON 3YRIA
Israel gained independence in 1948. Until 1979
)32!%
%,
*ORDAN there were no set borders, only cease-fire lines. The
%GYPT
situation of the Palestine people remains unsettled.
The flag was designed for the Zionist Jewish flags for centuries before being
movement by David Wolfsohn in adopted as the national flag of Israel.
1891, over 50 years before the state The blue and white colors are said to
of Israel was officially declared. recall the colors of the tallith ( Jewish
prayer shawl). The blue is officially
STAR OF DAVID described as “Yale Blue.” It is a lighter
The central emblem in the form shade than used in other Israeli flags.
of a hexagram is known as the The merchant flag was adopted in
“Magen David” (Shield of David), 1948. There is also a naval ensign of
an emblem that had been used on similar design.
THE CIVIL ENSIGN Like other variant Israeli THE NAVAL ENSIGN
flags, civil and naval ensigns
are a darker shade of blue
than the national flag
The Shield of
David is slightly
elongated
179
Asia
Jordan
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: April 16, 1928 Usage: National and Civil
Red, black,
green, and
white are
pan-Arab
colors
Asia
,EBANON 3YRIA )RAQ Originally called Transjordan, as part of the
)SRAE
AEL
AE
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3AUDI
Ottoman Empire, Jordan was officially renamed
%GYPT !RABIA
when independence was gained in 1946.
The colors of the Jordanian flag are JORDAN’S COAT OF ARMS
those of the pan-Arab flag. They The coat of arms is similar to that
were first used in 1917 to represent designed in 1949 for the King. The
“pan-Arabianism,” which sought crest is a crown in his honor. The
independence from the Ottoman current inscription on the scroll reads
Empire. The star at the hoist was “The King of the Hashemite
added in 1928, when Jordan gained Kingdom of Jordan, Abdullah bin al-
nominal independence. It represents Hussein bin A’oun, Beseeches the
seven verses of Islamic belief. Almighty for Aid and Success.”
180
Asia
Saudi Arabia
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: 1973 Usage: National and Civil
A number of
versions of the
green flag have
been used by the The shahada,
Wahabi sect since is the Muslim
the 19th century Statement of Faith
Asia
*ORDAN
AN
N
)R
)RAQ
+U
+UWAIT The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was unified under
%GYPT 3!5$)
! 2!")! 5!%
5! King Abd-al Aziz (ibn Sa’ud) in 1932. The Sa’ud
3UDAN /M
/MAN
/M
9EMEN
family are the country’s absolutist rulers.
The flag of Saudi Arabia symbolizes the flag in white letters, making
the Arab peoples of the desert. it one of the few national flags to
Used in various forms since the contain an inscription.
late 19th century, the green is By law it must be able to be read
favored by the Wahabi sect and is correctly—from right to left—on
believed to be the favorite color both sides of the flag. The sword is
of the prophet Muhammad. the symbolic sword of Abd-al-Aziz,
who conquered part of Arabia in the
FLAG INSCRIPTION early 20th century. It has appeared
In 1901, the shahada, the Muslim in different forms in the past,
Statement of Faith, was added to sometimes as two crossed swords.
181
Asia
Yemen
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: May 22, 1990 Usage: National and Civil
Asia
3AUDI !RABIA Yemen was originally two countries, the Kingdom
%RITREA 9%-%.
%RIT
/MAN of Yemen, in the north, and the British Aden
$
$JIBOUTI
Protectorate in the south. The two united in 1990.
The first flag of the Yemen, used NORTH YEMEN
while the Imams were in power, was The flag of the Yemen Arab
red, with a white sword placed Republic, formally the Kingdom of
horizontally in the center and five Yemen, was also modeled on the
white stars representing the five Egyptian flag. It was a red, white,
duties of a devout Muslim. Yemen and black tricolor, but it was simply
was originally two countries, each charged with a single, five-pointed
having their own flag. green star in a central white band,
representing Arab unity.
SOUTH YEMEN
Formally the British Aden A UNIFIED FLAG
Protectorate, the flag of the People’s When Yemen unified, the stars and
Democratic Republic of Yemen was the triangle were dropped, but the
modeled on the Egyptian pan-Arab common elements of their flags—the
flag. It was a red, white, and black pan-Arab red, white, and black
tricolor and it bore a blue triangle, stripes—were preserved for the united
representing the Yemeni people in flag. The new flag’s pattern suggests a
the hoist, while a red star represented compromise between the officially
the Socialist ruling party. secular south and the Islamic north.
182
Asia
Oman
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: April 25, 1995 Usage: National and Civil
Asia
3AUDI 5!
5!% From the mid-19th century, Oman was a British
!RABIA
/-
-!.
-
protectorate. In 1970, it achieved independence as
9
9EMEN
the Sultanate of Oman.
Until 1970, Oman used the plain THE SYMBOLISM OF THE COLORS
red banner of the indigenous people, White has been associated
the Kharijite Muslims. In 1970, the historically with the Imam, the
Sultan introduced a complete new set religious leader of Oman and at times
of national flags. Bands of green and the political rival to the ruling
white were added to the fly, and the Sultan. It also symbolizes peace.
national emblem, the badge of the Green is traditionally associated with
Abusaidi Dynasty, was placed in the the Jebel al Akhdarr or “Green
canton. This depicts crossed swords Mountains,” which lie toward the
surmounted by a gambia, a traditional north of the country. Red is a
curved dagger. common color in Gulf state flags.
THE NATIONAL EMBLEM
An ornate horse-bit
links the weapons
The national emblem is
said to date back to the
middle of the 18th century A curved dagger is
fastened over a pair
of crossed swords
183
Asia
Asia
1AT
AT
ATAR
5.)4%$
$
The United Arab Emirates is an amalgamation
3AUDI
!2!"
%-)2!4%3 of seven emirates, formerly known as the Trucial
/MAN
!RABIA
States, that came together in 1971.
Following a General Treaty in 1820, adopted in 1968, was also red and
the seven emirates that now form the white, but with a green star.
United Arab Emirates came under
British protection. Red and white THE PAN-ARAB COLORS
flags were taken up by all except the On independence in 1971, a flag in
Emirate of Fujairah, a non-signatory the pan-Arab colors—red, green,
to the treaty, which adopted a plain white and black—was adopted to
red flag. With minor alterations, the express Arab unity and nationalism.
flags are still retained for local use. The red also recalls the color of the
The first flag of the federation, flags of the member states.
FLAG OF DUBAI
Like the other six The flag colors
emirates, Dubai remain constant, but
retains its individual the proportions have
red and white flag changed in recent
decades
184
Asia
Qatar
Ratio: 11:28 Adopted: c. 1949 Usage: National and Civil
The maroon coloring and proportions “Qatar maroon” derives from the
distinguish the flag from Bahrain’s flag action of sun on natural red dye
Asia
"AHRAIN Formerly linked to Bahrain, Qatar was in a treaty
3AUDI
!RABIA
relationship with Britain from 1916 until 1971,
when it gained full independence.
Qatar’s flag was originally plain red, zigzag, white interlock derives from a
like the flag of Bahrain, to which it British request in the 1820s that all
was once linked. The peoples of friendly states around the Gulf add a
both countries are Kharijite white band to their flags, to
Muslims, whose traditional banner distinguish them from pirate flags.
was red. The flag evolved in its During its earlier usage, before
present form around the middle of Qatar’s independence, the flag also
the 19th century, and was officially bore the name of the state in white
adopted when Qatar became lettering and red diamonds were
independent from Britain in 1971. placed on the white band.
185
Asia
Bahrain
Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: 2002 Usage: National and Civil
Asia
"!(2!
2!
2!).
)RAN Despite Iran’s claims of sovereignty, Bahrain,
3AUDI 1ATAR an archipelago in the Gulf, has retained its
!RABIA
independence gained from Great Britain in 1971.
Bahrain was under British with differing white patterns on
protection from 1820 to 1971. By them. A plain vertical white strip was
the terms of the General Maritime added to Bahrain’s flag. In 1932 the
Treaty of 1820, all friendly states in line was made serrated. In 2002,
the Gulf undertook to add white Bahrain became a kingdom and the
borders to their red flags, so that number of serrations was set at five.
they would not be taken for pirate The national arms was adopted in
flags. The various states of the 1932. It is based on the colors and
“Pirate Coast” then developed flags design of the national flag.
ARMS OF BAHRAIN
Until independence
in 1971, there was
The coat of arms dates an oriental crown
from 1932; it was designed above the shield
by Sir Charles Belgrave,
the Sheik’s political adviser
The shield contains the
characteristic serrated
division line, as on the
national flag
186
Asia
Kuwait
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: September 7, 1961 Usage: National and Civil
Asia
)RAQ The State of Kuwait traces its independence
3AUDI
+57!
57!)4
57
7! to 1710, but it was under British rule from the late
!RABIA
18th century until 1961.
Before 1961, the flag of Kuwait, like land. The idea for the flag’s distinctive
those of other Gulf states, was red and design—a horizontal tricolor with a
white. The present flag is in the pan- black trapezium in the hoist—may
Arab colors, but each color is also have come from the flag used by Iraq
significant in its own right. Black until the late 1950s.
symbolizes the defeat of the enemy,
while red is the color of blood on the KUWAIT’S COAT OF ARMS
Kuwaiti swords. White symbolizes The arms depicts a hawk containing
purity and green is for the fertile an Arab dhow
w on stylized waves.
An Arab dhow—a
traditional sailing boat
A hawk with
outstretched wings
A shield in the
national colors
187
Asia
Iraq
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: February 19, 2008 Usage: National and Civil
Red represents
courage
White symbolizes
generosity Green is the
traditional color
of Islam
Asia
4URKEYY
4URK
3
3YRIA
Iraq has been independent since 1932. The republic
)RAN
)2!1
*ORDAN
ORD was proclaimed in 1958. Period of instability since
3AUDI
3A D !RABIA +UWAI
+UWA
+UWAIT
2003, following the overthrow of Saddam Hussein.
The flags of Iraq have always flag of Egypt (see page 60). In 1991,
included the pan-Arab colors of red, the inscription was added. It was
white, black, and green. The colors modified and the stars removed
represent the qualities of those who in 2008.
follow Islam. Red represents
courage; white stands for generosity; THE NATIONAL ARMS
black is for the triumphs of Islam, Also in 1963 the golden Eagle of
and green is for Islam itself. Saladin became the national arms.
Three green stars were added to It always shows the national flag on
the flag in 1963, based on the then its chest.
ISLAMIC VERSE
188
Asia
Iran
Ratio: 4:7 Adopted: July 29, 1980 Usage: National and Civil
Asia
4URK
4URKMENI
4URKMENISTAN
Iran was a monarchy until 1979, when the
)RAQ )2!. !
!FGHANISTAN
STA
3AUDI
DI
Ayatollah Khomeini deposed the Shah. An Islamic
0AKISTAN
AN
!RABIA
republic was formed in 1980.
The traditional green, white, and red A REVOLUTIONARY EMBLEM
of the Iranian flag date back to the The emblem in the center of the flag
18th century, although there is no is a highly stylized composite
agreed explanation of the colors. The of various elements representing
colors were arranged in horizontal different facets of Islamic life:
stripes in 1906. In 1980 a new flag Allah, the Book, the Sword, the five
was introduced with the addition of principles of Islam, balance, unity,
emblems expressive of the Islamic neutrality, and the universal
Revolution. government of the downtrodden.
189
Asia
Turkmenistan
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: February 19, 1997 Usage: National and Civil
The wreath
of olive leaves Each star
is identical represents
to those on one of the
the United five Turkmen
Nations flag, regions
and was added
in 1997
Asia
+
+AZ 5ZBEKISTAN
Turkmenistan was originally one of the
45
452+-%.)34!
45 34!.
15 federated states of the USSR. It broke away and
)RAN !F
!FGHANISTAN
became an independent republic in 1991.
The original design of the flag was designs used by the tribes who
adopted on February 19, 1992, produced the country’s famous
following a competition, and is based carpets. The wreath of olive leaves
on national traditions. In the official was added in 1997 to “immortalize
interpretation, the five stars stand for the policy of neutrality” declared by
the new regions established by the Turkmenistan in 1995.
constitution of 1992. The carpet The coat of arms recalls the
design contains five medallions or region’s important agricultural
guls, said to represent the traditional products and famous horses.
ARMS OF TURKMENISTAN
190
Asia
Uzbekistan
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: November 18, 1991 Usage: National and Civil
ARMS OF UZBEKISTA
T N Islamic crescent and star
The arms features a bird
whose outstretched wings Wheat represents the
form a crescent framing a country’s staple food crop
rising sun over a landscape
of mountains and rivers
Cotton is Uzbekistan’s
chief cash crop The ribbon bears the
name of the state
191
Asia
Kazakhstan
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: June 4, 1992 Usage: National and Civil
The sky-
blue field
symbolizes the
skies stretching
over the many A berkut, or
Kazakh people steppe eagle,
beneath a
shining sun
Asia
2USSIAN
N &EDERATION
&
Part of Central Asia conquered by Russia in the
+!:!+(34!.
#HINA
18th century, Kazakhstan was the largest republic
+YRGYZSTAN
+Y
YRGY
to secede from the USSR.
Kazakhstan’s post-communist flag steppe eagle. Together they
was adopted in 1992. Its sky-blue represent love, freedom and the
background recalls the endless skies aspirations of the Kazakh people.
over the Kazakh people. It also A pattern of what is described as
symbolizes well-being, tranquility, “national ornamentation” forms a
peace, and unity. In the center of the vertical stripe near the hoist.
flag, below a golden sun with 32 The new coat of arms is also based
rays, soars a bird of the species around a radiant sun. It depicts
known locally as the berkut, or traditional features of Kazakhstan.
ARMS OF KAZAKHSTA
T N
The sun’s rays spread out
like a yurt’s supporting
The center of the arms is structure
like the upper part of a
yurt, the ancient felt tent
of the Kazakh nomads
Winged and horned
horses represent historical
traditions and beliefs
192
Asia
Mongolia
Ratio: 2:1 Adopted: 1992 Usage: Civil and State
Asia
2USSIAN &EDERATION
DE
Mongolia is a remote state that has been under
-/.'/,)!
communist rule since 1924. The former Communist
#HINA
Party was democratically re-elected in 1997.
The current national flag replaced days of Genghis Khan. The flag
the Red flag of revolution in 1940. bears a 17th-century Buddhist
The red field is retained at the fly and emblem at hoist called the soyonbo.
hoist, although the color’s original The soyonbo comprises various
socialist connotations have given way ideograms representing different
to more general themes elements from the Buddhist view
of progress and prosperity. The of the world. The communist star
sky-blue panel represents the people which appeared above the soyonbo
of Mongolia and invokes the imperial was removed in 1992.
193
Asia
Kyrgyzstan
Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: March 3, 1992 Usage: National and Civil
Asia
+AZAKHSTAN
Conquered by Russia under the tsars, in 1991 the
+92'9:34!.
5ZBEKISTAN
ZBEEKISTAN Republic of Kyrgyzstan became the last of the
#HINA
4AJIKISTAN
AJIKISTAN
Soviet Union Republics to declare sovereignty.
Independent since 1991, a post- people of the steppe. It symbolizes
communist flag was not adopted until the unity of time and space, the
1992. The flag’s red background is origin of life, hearth and home,
supposed to be the flag color used by and the history of the nomads.
the national hero, Manas the Noble,
who welded 40 tribes together to ARMS OF KYRGYZSTA
T N
form the Kyrgyz nation. Like the arms of its neighbor,
In the center of the flag is a yellow Kazakhstan, the coat of arms of
sun with 40 rays, representing the Kyrgyzstan is round and does not
tribes and the legendary 40 heroes contain a traditional shield. In the
of Manas. The sun’s rays run center is a white eagle with spread
clockwise on the obverse of the flag wings. Behind this are snow-capped
and counterclockwise on the reverse. mountains, representing the mighty
Tien Shan and a radiant, rising sun.
A TRADITIONAL YURT This scene is bordered by wreaths of
At the sun’s center is a stylized cotton and wheat, both major
bird’s-eye view of the roof, or agricultural products in Kyrgyzstan.
tunduk, of a Kyrgyz yurt, the The name of the state is inscribed in
traditional tent used by the nomadic Cyrillic script at the top.
194
Asia
Tajikistan
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: November 24, 1992 Usage: National and Civil
Green represents
farm produce
Asia
+YRGYZ
5ZBEK A former member of the USSR, Tajikistan
4!*)+)34!. #HINA
proclaimed independence in 1991, but Russian
!
!FGH
and communist influences remain strong.
In 1992, Tajikistan became the last of SYMBOLS OF THE NEW STATE
the former USSR republics to adopt a The center of the flag features a
new flag. The red, white, and green gold crown and an arc of seven stars.
stripes are the same as those chosen in These symbols refer to the state
1953 for the flag of the Tadzhik Soviet sovereignty of Tajikistan, friendship
Socialist Republic. Red is the color of between all nations and the
the flag of the USSR; white is for “unbreakable union of workers,
cotton, Tajikistan’s main export and peasants, and the intellectual classes”
green recalls other farm produce. of the republic.
ARMS OF TAJIKI
T STAN
195
Asia
Afghanistan
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: 2004 Usage: National
Asia
4URKMEN
U 5Z
5ZBEK Afghanistan has had a troubled history. This is
!&'(!.)34!.
'(!.)34!. shown by the no less than 14 distinct national flags it
)RAN
0AKISTAN
has used in the 20th and 21st centuries.
With the election of a democratic The arms show the Muslim
government in 2004, the present flag Mehrab, the niche which shows the
was adopted. Black, red, and green direction to the Muslim Holy City of
have been traditional in most Afghan Mecca, and Minbar, the pulpit from
flags. Black is from the first which sermons are preached. These
recognized Afghan flag; red is for are shown within a traditional image
bravery, and green for Islam. The of a mosque, flanked by two national
white emblem in the center is the flags and surrounded by a wreath of
state coat of arms. This too is a wheat and beneath a rising sun.
traditional design. Four inscriptions also appear.
196
Asia
Pakistan
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: August 14, 1947 Usage: National
The crescent
represents progress
Asia
!FGHAN
#HINA
Once a part of British India, Pakistan was created
)RAN
0!+)34!.
!+)34!. in 1947 as an independent Muslim state. Today, it
)NDIA
is divided into four provinces.
The flag was designed by Muhammad THE SYMBOLISM OF THE COLORS
Ali Jinnah, founder of the nation. It is The green and white together stand
associated with the flag used by the for peace and prosperity. The crescent
All-India Muslim League as an symbolizes progress and the star
emblem of its aim of achieving an represents light and knowledge.
independent Muslim state. Their flag The flag of the President is similar
was green, with a central white star to the national flag. The emblems are
and crescent. At independence, a in gold and are enclosed within a
white stripe was added at the hoist to wreath of laurel. Beneath is the name
represent the state’s minorities. of the state in Urdu.
197
Asia
Nepal
Ratio: 4:3 (plus border) Adopted: December 16, 1962 Usage: National and Civil
Asia
#HINA From 1960 Nepal was ruled by an absolute
.%0!,
)NDIA
monarchy. This regime ended in 1991 when the
first multiparty elections were held.
The flag of Nepal is the only THE SUN AND THE MOON
national flag that is not rectangular Until 1962, the flag’s emblems, the
or square. Originally, two separate sun and the crescent moon, had
triangular pennants were flown one human faces. They were removed to
above the other; these were then modernize the flag. The sun retains
joined to form a single flag. Its the face on the Royal Standard. The
crimson red is the color of the crescent represents the royal house
rhododendron; the country’s and the sun denotes the Rana family,
national flower. Red is also the who were hereditary prime ministers
sign of victory in war. The blue until 1961.
border is the color of peace.
198
Asia
Bhutan
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: c. 1965 Usage: National and Civil
Saffron yellow
denotes the
authority of The “Thunder
the King Dragon”
White represents
purity and loyalty
Asia
Nepal
pal
China
Bhutan is a Buddhist state where power is shared
India
BHUTAN
A
by the king and government. The country’s name in
M
Myanmar
the local dialect means “Land of the Dragon.”
In Bhutan, thunder is believed to be TEMPORAL AND SPIRITUAL POWER
the voices of dragons roaring. In The two colors of the flag, divided
about 1200, a monastery was set up diagonally, represent spiritual and
called the Druk (the “Thunder temporal power within Bhutan.
Dragon”), with a sect called the The orange part of the flag
Drukpas named after it. The name represents the Drukpa monasteries
and the emblem of the dragon have and Buddhist religious practice,
been associated with Bhutan ever while the saffron yellow field
since. The dragon on the flag is denotes the secular authority of the
white to symbolize purity. royal dynasty of the Wangchuks.
EMBLEM OF BHUTAN
T
The snarling mouth
expresses the strength
The dragon symbolizes of the male and female
Druk, the Tibetan
deities protecting the
name for the Kingdom country
of Bhutan
Jewels clasped in
the dragon’s claws
symbolize wealth
199
Asia
India
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: July 22, 1947 Usage: National
Orange represents
courage and sacrifice
White symbolizes
peace and truth
Green symbolizes
faith and chivalry
The Chakra, or
Buddhist spinning wheel
.EPAL #HINA
Under British rule from 1763, the Indian
"HUTAN
subcontinent divided into Pakistan and India in
1947 upon independence.
The national flag, adopted in 1947, THE CHAKRA
A
is based on the flag of the Indian The central motif is a Chakra, or
National Congress which was Buddhist spinning wheel. The 24
established in 1885 to press for spokes of the wheel correspond with
independence. The flag’s orange the 24 hours of the day, implying
color symbolizes courage and that there is life in movement and
sacrifice, white stands for peace and death in stagnation.
truth, green is for faith and chivalry, The naval ensign is adapted from
and blue represents the color of the British practice. The gold National
sky and the ocean. Emblem was added in 2004.
The design
The gold National derives from
Emblem of India British naval
appears in the center practice
200
Asia
Maldives
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: July 26, 1965 Usage: National and Civil
The crescent
represents Islam
Asia
)NDIA The archipelago of small islands that forms the
-!,$)6%3 Maldives was once a British Protectorate. The
3RI ,ANKA
Maldives became fully independent in 1965.
Until the beginning of the 20th added along the hoist. This was
century the flag of the Maldives was dropped after independence from
plain red, reflecting the culture of Britain in 1965. A modern
the Arab traders from the Persian interpretation of the colors suggests
Gulf who operated among the that red symbolizes the blood shed
islands. This flag remained in use in the struggle for independence,
after the British Protectorate was set while green stands for peace
up in 1887. The flag later acquired a and progress.
white crescent facing the hoist—
another sign of Islamic influence. THE NATIONAL ARMS
The coat of arms of the Maldives
A NEW DESIGN contains the Islamic crescent and
The flag was redesigned in 1948 after star emblem beneath a date palm.
the independence of Ceylon (now Sri Below the crescent is a scroll with
Lanka) of which the islands had been the inscription, in Dihevi, “State of
a dependency. The crescent was a Thousand Islands,” which recalls
turned around and placed on an the many islands—over 2000—that
Islamic green panel. A pattern of make up the Maldives. The crescent
black and white diagonal stripes was is f lanked by two national f lags.
201
Asia
Sri Lanka
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: December 17, 1978 Usage: National and Civil
Green
represents The four
Muslims pipul leaves
are Buddhist
Orange symbols
represents
Hindus
The sword is a
symbol of authority
Asia
)NDIA The island of Ceylon was a British colony
32) ,!.+!
,!.
until independence in 1948. It became a republic
under the name Sri Lanka in 1972.
The original flag of Sri Lanka groups, so vertical bands of green,
featured just the lion and sword for Muslims, and orange, for the
on a red field, recalling that the Hindu Tamils, were added in 1951.
Sinhalese word for lion—“Sinhala”— When the country’s name
is the basis of the island’s name. The changed from Ceylon to Sri Lanka
flag’s yellow border symbolized the in 1972, four leaves were added.
protection of the nation by They denote the tree under which
Buddhism. Siddhartha sat when he received
The flag was derived from the flag enlightenment and became the
of the Sinhalese kingdom of Kandy. Buddha. This version of the flag
It proved unpopular with minority was in official use from 1978.
FLAG OF KANDY
The “Lion Flag” was the The finials are derived
national flag of Ceylon from the spire on top of
prior to 1815 when it a Buddhist temple
became a British colony
202
Asia
Bangladesh
Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: January 25, 1972 Usage: National
Green represents
the land
Asia
Bangladesh was formerly the eastern province of
BANGLADESH
NGLADE H
India
Pakistan. After a civil war with Pakistan, it became
Myanmar
a separate country in 1971.
The flag was originally adopted in ARMS OF BANGLADESH
March 1971, when the country The coat of arms was adopted in
gained independence, at which time 1972 and consists of the national
it had a yellow silhouette map of the flower, a water lily, known locally
country in the red disc. This flag as the shapla, growing from stylized
was used throughout the struggle waves. Around it are ears of rice,
for independence, but when the and above is a sprig of jute, with
state was formally established in four golden stars. The arms appears
1971 the outline map was omitted in the center of the President’s flag,
from the new national flag. set on a deep purple field.
203
Asia
Myanmar (Burma)
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: January 4, 1974 Usage: National and Civil
White
represents purity
India MYANMAR
In 1886, Myanmar became a province of British
YA NMAR
YAN
India. It separated from India in 1937, and gained
Thailand
a
an
independence from British colonial control in 1948.
The flag originated in the Burman peoples. Red stands for the courage
Resistance, which adopted a red flag of the people, blue is for peace, and
with a white star when fighting the white is for purity.
occupying Japanese forces during The emblem was changed in
World War II. At independence, the 1974 to represent the new socialist
star was modified to a blue canton ideology in the country. The five
with five small stars surrounding stars were changed to 14, encircling
one large one, symbolizing the a cog-wheel, for industry and a rice
uniting of the country’s diverse plant for agriculture.
EMBLEM OF MYANMAR
204
Asia
Thailand
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: September 28, 1917 Usage: National and Civil
Asia
Myanm
nm
nmar
India
In
Laos
Formerly known as the Kingdom of Siam,
THAILAND
HA A ILAN
AN
ND
N D
Thailand is the only Southeast Asian nation
Ca
Cambodia
never to have been colonized.
Thailand is also known as the added to the middle of the flag in
“Land of the White Elephant,” order to express solidarity with the
and this emblem appeared on its Allies, whose flags were mostly red,
plain red flag in the 19th century. white and blue. This flag is known
During World War I, horizontal as the Trairanga (tricolor).
white stripes were added above and The Royal Arms of Thailand
below the elephant. was introduced in 1910. The arms
In 1917 the elephant was feature the garuda, a bird-man in
abandoned, and a blue stripe was Hindu mythology.
ARMS OF THAILAND
205
Asia
Laos
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: December 2, 1975 Usage: National and Civil
Blue represents
wealth
The white disc
Red symbolizes the symbolizes unity
blood shed during the under communism
struggle for freedom
Asia
Myanmarr
M
China A French protectorate from the end of the 19th
LAOS
Vietnam
century, Laos gained full independence in 1953.
Thailand
Th
Cambodia
It has been under communist rule since 1975.
The national flag of Laos was at the top and bottom. From
adopted in 1975, when the country 1973–1975, the Pathet Lao formed
became a people’s republic. It is one part of the government coalition,
of the few communist flags that before assuming power directly
does not use the five-pointed star as and prompting the abdication of
an emblem. This flag replaced the the king. Their flag was then adopted
original flag of Laos, which was as the national flag.
red, with a triple-headed white In the center is a white disc
elephant on a pedestal beneath a symbolizing the unity of the people
parasol. This expressed the ancient under the leadership of the Lao
name of the country, “Land of a People’s Revolutionary Party and
Million Elephants,” and dated from the country’s bright future. The red
the 19th century. stripes stand for the blood shed by
the people in their struggle for
A FLAG FOR THE REPUBLIC freedom, and the blue symbolizes
From 1953 onward, the royal their prosperity.
government waged war with the The white disc on a blue
Pathet Lao, whose flag was blue background is also said to represent a
with a white disc and red borders full moon against the Mekong River.
206
Asia
Cambodia
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: June 29, 1993 Usage: National and Civil
Asia
4HAILAND
#!-"/$)!
#!
# ! -"/$
,AOS
$)!
!
Cambodia was a French Protectorate until 1949
when it became nominally independent once more.
6IETNAM
Full independence was achieved in 1953.
The flag used today is the same as built by the Mahidharapura
that established in 1948, although monarchs. It has five towers, but
since then five other designs have these were not always all depicted in
been employed. These have almost the stylized version used on flags.
all made use of the image of the The temple also appears on the arms.
temple of Angkor Wat in one form The monarchy was restored in
or another. This famous temple site, September 1993, the 1948 flag having
dates from the 12th century, was been re-adopted in June of that year.
ARMS OF CAMBODIA
207
Asia
Vietnam
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 30, 1955 Usage: National and Civil
Red symbolizes
The gold five-pointed revolution and
star is for the unity of bloodshed
five groups of workers
in building socialism
208
Asia
Malaysia
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: September 16, 1963 Usage: National and Civil
Asia
4HAILAND Malaya became independent of Britain in 1957.
"RUNEI
- ! , !9 3 ) ! In 1963, the Federation of Malaysia was formed,
)NDONESIA
NDD A although Singapore seceded in 1965.
The first flag of independent Malaya seceded in 1965, the flag remained
was based on the Stars and Stripes unaltered. The fourteenth stripe is
of the United States of America, now said to stand for the federal
combined with Islamic symbolism. district of Kuala Lumpur.
It had 11 red and white stripes and
a blue canton, like the US flag, with THE SYMBOLISM OF THE COLORS
a gold crescent and an eleven-pointed The blue canton represents the unity
star, traditionally associated with of the Malaysian people. The crescent
Islam. Both the number of stripes is for Islam, the dominant religion.
and points on the star denoted the The 14 points of the star are for unity
11 states of the Federation. among the states of the country.
Yellow is the traditional color of the
THREE NEW STA
T TES rulers of the Malay states. Red and
In 1963 three new states—Singapore, white are also traditional colors in
Sabah and Sarawak—joined the Southeast Asia.
Federation to form Malaysia. To The national motto appears on a
reflect this the flag was amended to scroll in the coat of arms. It is
14 red and white stripes representing repeated in both Jawi and Roman
the 14 states. When Singapore script and means “Unity is Strength.”
209
Asia
OHORE KEDAH
The blue field represents the Red is the traditional color of Kedah.
government. The red canton is for The sheaves of yellow padi, or rice, are
the “Hulubalang” warrior caste, who or prosperity. The green crescent
defend the state. The crescent and ignifies Islam and the yellow shield is
star represent the ruler. or sovereignty.
The red field is symbolic of the Blue is for the unity of the population
loyalty and sincerity of the people, f Kuala Lumpur; red for courage
while the white emblem represents nd vigor; white is for purity,
the ruler. Kelentan has 36 royal and leanliness and beauty; yellow for
official flags. overeignty and prosperity.
LABUAN MELAK A
The colors are those of the national The colors and pattern are taken from
flag and they have the same he national flag. Unlike the Malaysian
symbolism; white recalls the purity ag, the flag of Melaka only has one
of Buddhism and red represents the tripe of red and one of white and a
life-blood of the people. ve-pointed star.
This flag reflects the hierarchy of White is for the ruler, because it can
power in Malaysia. The yellow field hange to any other color, reflecting how
symbolizes the ruler, the black ruler can be influenced by popular
triangle, the district rulers and the pinion. Black represents the people,
red triangle, the people. tanding firm.
210
Asia
PERAK PERLIS
The three stripes represent different levels Yellow represents the ruler and blue
of the royal family. The Sultan is evoked epresents the people. The colors are
by white, the Raja Muda by yellow and the rranged as two equal horizontal stripes to
Raja di-Hilir by black. The latter two are gnify the close cooperation that should
junior members of the ruling family. xist between the ruler and his subjects.
PINANG SABAH
Light blue represents the blue seas around The zircon blue (top stripe) is for
the island of Pinang. White is for the peace ranquillity, white for purity and justice,
and serenity of the state and yellow for its ed for courage, ice-blue (canton) for unity
prosperity. The tree is the Pinang palm, nd prosperity, and royal blue for strength.
after which the state is named. The mountain is Kinabalu.
SARAWAK SELANGOR
Yellow is the traditional color of Borneo, The yellow and red quarters are symbolic
where the state lies. Red and black are f flesh and blood, the combination
from the flag of the former Raja of ecessary for life. The crescent and star in
Sarawak. The star has nine points for the he canton represent Islam, the dominant
nine districts of the state. eligion of the state.
TERENGGANU
211
Asia
Indonesia
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: August 17, 1945 Usage: National and Civil
White symbolizes
the soul
ARMS OF INDONESIA
The shield depicts a buffalo
The arms show a shield head, a banyan tree, and
supported by a mythical sheaves of rice and cotton
bird, the garuda. The
17 wing-feathers and 8 The yellow star represents
tail-feathers refer to the day religious belief
and month (August 17) on
which independence was The national motto means
declared in 1945 “Unity in Diversity”
212
Asia
East Timor
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: May 20, 2002 Usage: National and Civil
213
Asia
Singapore
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: December 3, 1959 Usage: National and Civil
Asia
-ALAYSIA Granted self-government by Britain in 1959,
Singapore became part of the Federation of
3).'!0/2%
Malaysia in 1963, and fully independent in 1965.
The flag dates from when Singapore brotherhood and equality, while
became a self-governing British white symbolizes purity and virtue.
colony in 1959. It was preserved The white crescent signifies the
when Singapore joined the new nation of Singapore, while the
Malaysian Federation and adopted five stars next to it represent the
as the national flag when Singapore ideals of democracy, peace,
became fully independent in 1965. progress, justice and equality.
The colors of red and white are The President’s flag is a plain
those of the Malay people. Red is red field with the crescent and star
supposed to represent universal emblem in the center.
Brunei
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: September 29, 1959 Usage: National and Civil
Black and
The national white stripes
emblem was represent
placed in the Brunei’s chief
center in 1959 ministers
Asia
Brunei became a British Protectorate in 1888. It
"25.%)
gained full independence in 1984, and is now an
-ALAYSIA
SIA
IA )NDO
NDONESIA
NDON
absolute monarchy under its Sultan.
A similar version of this flag, without THE NATIONAL ARMS
the coat of arms, was first used in The coat of arms bears testament to
1906. The flag’s main color, yellow, Brunei’s Muslim traditions with the
is associated with the Sultan, while crescent, a traditional symbol of
the black and white stripes that cut Islam, at its center. The Arabic motto
across it are the colors of the Brunei’s on the crescent translates as, “Always
two chief ministers. The coat of render service by God’s guidance”;
arms in the center of the flag was below it, a scroll bears the inscription
added in 1959. “Brunei Darussalam” (City of Peace).
ARMS OF BRUNEI
The flag and umbrella
are symbols of royalty
The central mast is a The upturned hands
symbol of the state signify the benevolence
of the government
The crescent is symbolic
of the Islamic faith
The inscription is the
country’s official title
“Brunei Darussalam”
215
Asia
Philippines
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: May 19, 1898 Usage: National and Civil
4AIWAN
The Philippines was a Spanish colony until
1898, when it was ceded to the United States of
America. It gained its independence in 1946.
The flag was first used by Filipino The sun and stars are Masonic in
nationalists in exile while the origin. The eight rays of the sun are
Spanish still controlled the islands. for the eight provinces that revolted
When they were ceded to the USA, against the Spanish. The three stars
the Philippines became far more represent the country’s three main
autonomous, and the flag was flown geographical areas. White stands for
freely from 1898. It was banned by purity and peace; red for bravery and
the Americans from 1907–1919, and blue for patriotism. When used at
the Stars and Stripes was flown war, the red stripe is flown at the top
exclusively on the islands. of the flag, representing courage.
THE PRESIDENT’S
FLAG
A ring of 52 white
stars of Manila
216
Asia
Taiwan
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 28, 1928 Usage: National
Asia
#HINA Taiwan was formerly part of China. It became a
4!)7!. separate state in 1949 under the Nationalist Party,
which was expelled from government in Beijing.
The flag adopted for Taiwan or unending progress, each ray
Formosa, as it was known, had been represents two hours of the day.
the national flag of China. It was
used from 1928–1949 when the THE TAIPEI OLYMPIC FLAG
Kuomingtang, the Chinese This flag was adopted by Taiwan
Nationalist Party was in power. specifically for use at the Olympic
The red field represents China, Games, where its national flag was
the blue canton and white sun was not accepted. It combines red, white,
the party flag of the Kuomingtang. and blue; the national colors of
The 12 rays of sunshine symbolize Taiwan and the Olympic emblem.
217
Asia
China
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 1, 1949 Usage: National and Civil
Asia
+AZAKH
2USS &ED
-ONG G China has the world’s oldest continuous
civilization. The communist Chinese People’s
Republic was established in 1949.
China’s first national flag originated to the Soviet fatherland. The present
in 1872. It was yellow with a blue flag dates from 1949, when the
dragon, representing the Manchu People’s Republic was formed.
(Qing) Dynasty which ruled China The large star represents
for many years. The revolt of 1911 communism. The red field signifies
saw the changing of the flag to revolution and echoes the ancient
five different colored stripes. Han Dynasty of 206 bc. The four
Soviet republics were established stars represent the four social classes:
in the 1920s, each of which was peasants, workers, petty bourgeoisie,
represented by a red flag referring and patriotic capitalists.
218
Asia
North Korea
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: September 9, 1948 Usage: National and Civil
Asia
#HINA
./24(
./24
./2
24(
2
2USS &ED
2US
2USS
( +/2%!
D
The Kingdom of Korea was annexed by Japan in
3OUTH
1910. In 1948, the peninsula was partitioned into
+ORE
+OREA
democratic South and communist North Korea.
The flag was adopted in 1948, when flag of South Korea, and
North Korea became an independent represents the opposing principles
communist state. The traditional of nature. The red stripe expresses
Korean flag was red, white and blue. revolutionary traditions; while the
The regime retained these colors— red star is for communism.
with more prominence given to the The prominent theme of the
red—and added a red star on a white Soviet-style coat of arms is
disc. The disc recalls the Chinese yin- industrialization, depicted with an
yang symbol, which is found on the electricity pylon and a large dam.
219
Asia
South Korea
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: September 8, 1948 Usage: National and Civil
White is the
traditional color of the
Three broken bars
Korean people
symbolize earth
220
Asia
Japan
Ratio: 7:10 Adopted: January 27, 1870 Usage: National and Civil
Asia
.ORTH
+OREA Isolated from the world for centuries, Japan began to
*!0!. modernize in the 19th century. After defeat in World
War II, it became a democracy.
Japan is known as “The Land of the THE HINOMARU
Rising Sun.” The Emperor of Japan The Lucky Sun or Hinomaru,
and his predecessors descend from in the center of the flag, has been
the House of Yamato, which united an imperial badge since the 14th
the country in ad 200 and they century. The white field stands
claim to be direct descendants of for purity and integrity, and some
the sun goddess, Amaterasu suggest the red disc represents
Omikami. brightness, sincerity and warmth.
The current flag was officially The Japanese Maritime SDF
established as the national flag ensign is an unusual adaptation
of Japan in 1870. of the national flag.
JAPANESE MARITIME
SDF ENSIGN
Adopted in 1889, the Rays extend to the edge
naval ensign consists of of the flag to recall the
the sun-disc with red rising sun
rays extending to the
border of the flag
221
Australasia and Oceania
Australia
Ratio: 2:1 Adopted: May 29, 1909 Usage: National and Civil
The Union
Jack is retained
in the canton
The stars of
the Southern
Cross
222
Australasia and Oceania
State flags
The state flags all use the British Blue Ensign, with the state badge in the canton.
The two territories do not follow this pattern.
The capital territory became self- A gold star adorns each arm of the
governing in 1989. The flag, adopted in t. George’s Cross, with a golden lion
1993, depicts Canberra’s city coat of arms assant guardantt at the center. This more
and the Southern Cross in the city colors of istinctive badge replaced a previous
blue and gold. esign in 1876.
NORTHERN QUEENSLAND
TERRITORY
Adopted by the territory in 1978, the flag The state badge depicts the Royal Crown at
depicts the Southern Cross and a stylized he center of a Maltese cross. The design of
Sturt’s desert rose against black and ocher, he crown was altered at the coronation of
which are the territorial colors. HM Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.
The state emblem of the piping shrike(a The Red Lion passantt on a white
magpie) is shown with outstretched wings ackground recalls historical ties with
on a yellow background. The piping shrike ngland and has remained essentially
was adopted as the flag badge in 1904. nchanged since its adoption in 1875.
VICTORIA WESTERN
AUSTRALIA
The Royal Crown was added in 1877. The The Black Swan has been Western
present arrangement, with the crown Australia’s emblem since the first British
surmounting the Southern Cross, became olony was founded at Swan River. The
the state arms in 1910. ag was adopted in 1953.
223
Australasia and Oceania
Vanuatu
Ratio: 11:18 Adopted: February 18, 1980 Usage: National and Civil
Red is symbolic
The boar’s tusk of blood
symbolizes
prosperity The yellow Y-shape
The fern leaves depicts the outline
represent peaceful of the Vanuatu
intentions archipelago and the
color of sunshine
224
Australasia and Oceania
Fiji
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: October 10, 1970 Usage: National and Civil
ARMS OF FIJI
On the chief, a British
The first quarter shows lion holds a coconut
sugar cane, the second a between its paws
coconut palm, the third
a dove of peace, and the The coat of arms was granted
fourth a bunch of bananas in 1908. It is a white shield,
with a red cross and a red chief
(the upper third of a shield)
225
Australasia and Oceania
A golden bird
of paradise
226
Australasia and Oceania
Solomon Islands
Ratio: 5:9 Adopted: November 18, 1977 Usage: National and Civil
The five
stars represent
the five
main groups
of islands Green
represents
the land
227
Australasia and Oceania
Palau
Ratio: 5:8 Adopted: January 1, 1981 Usage: National and Civil
228
Australasia and Oceania
Micronesia
Ratio: 10:19 Adopted: November 30, 1978 Usage: National and Civil
Micronesian States
CHUUK KOSRAE
The white coconut palm shows that the people The olive branches symbolize peace. The four
depend on coconut resources. The white stars tars are for the islands’ four units. The fafa stone
represent the 38 municipal units in the territory. traditionally used for grinding food.
POHNPEI Y P
YA
The eleven stars are for the district’s eleven The outer and inner rings show a rai, a traditional
municipalities. The half coconut shell represents ymbol of unity. The white outrigger canoe
the sakau cup used in traditional ceremonies. ymbolizes the desire to reach state goals.
229
Australasia and Oceania
Marshall Islands
Ratio: 10:19 Adopted: May 1, 1979 Usage: National and Civil
230
Australasia and Oceania
Nauru
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: January 31, 1968 Usage: National and Civil
ARMS OF NAURU
The 12-pointed star,
The shield is as featured on the flag,
surrounded by coconut representing the 12
leaves for phosphorus tribes of Nauru
231
Australasia and Oceania
Kiribati
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: July 12, 1979 Usage: National and Civil
232
Australasia and Oceania
Tuvalu
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: October 1, 1978 Usage: National and Civil
The Union
Jack signifies
continuing links
with Britain
The nine stars
are for the nine
islands
ARMS OF TUVA
V LU Eight sets of objects
reflect the country’s title,
The coat of arms “Eight Together”
depicts a local meeting
house or maneapa The border contains
eight sea shells and
eight banana leaves
The motto means
“Tuvalu for God”
233
Australasia and Oceania
Samoa
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: January 1, 1962 Usage:National and Civil
Blue represents
freedom
3!-/!
Under the administration of Germany, the USA
7ALLIS
A
!MERICAN
3AMOA
and later New Zealand, Samoa became the first
&UTUNA
U
independent Polynesian nation in 1962.
Prior to 1899, when Samoa was Malietoa and the Southern Cross
partitioned by Germany and the from the flag of New Zealand, on a
USA, it was ruled by the rival blue field in the canton.
kingdoms of Malietoa and Tamasese. In 1949, the smaller fifth star was
The flag of Malietoa was probably added, making the Southern Cross
inspired by missionaries. It was a more like that on the Australian
plain red field, with a white cross and flag. The flag was retained when
a white star in the canton. The rival independence was granted in 1962.
King of Tamasese favored the
German cause and used flags with ARMS OF SAMOA
black crosses. The coat of arms was adopted in
1951 and contains symbols reflecting
A UNITED FLAG the Christian faith of the Samoan
In 1948, by then a territory of New people. It depicts a shield of the
Zealand, Samoa was granted its Southern Cross, below a coconut
current flag. This was created palm from the previous colonial
jointly by the kings of Malietoa and badge. Above the shield is a cross
Tamasese. It comprised a red field recalling the national motto—“May
taken from the former flag of God be the foundation of Samoa.”
234
Australasia and Oceania
Tonga
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: November 4, 1875 Usage: National and Civil
White symbolizes
purity
TONGAN NAV
AVA L ENSIGN
Red couped cross
in the canton
235
Australasia and Oceania
New Zealand
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: June 12, 1902 Usage: National
The Union
Jack in the Four white-
canton recalls bordered red
New Zealand’s stars represent
colonial ties the Southern
to Britain Cross
Overseas Territories
The 15 stars on the fly represent the 15 The link with the UK is shown by the use
main islands of the group; they are of the Union Jack; that with New Zealand
arranged in a ring to indicate that each by the four stars. The large central star
island is of equal importance. represents Niue itself.
236
International flags
Many international organizations also adopt flags. Below is a selection of the most well-known.
CARICOM THE
(Caribbean Community COMMONWEALTH
and Common Market)
FIAV NATO
(International Federation of (North Atlantic
Vexillological Associations) Treaty Organization)
OLYMPIC
L MOVEMENT ORDER OF ST JOHN
RED CRESCENT AU
(African Union)
RED CRYSTAL
T SECRETA
T RIAT OF THE
PACIFIC COMMUNIT Y
237
Signal flags
Code G Q 0
1st Repeat H R 1
2nd Repeat I S 2
3rd Repeat J T 3
A K U 4
B L V 5
C M W 6
D N X 7
E O Y 8
F P Z 9
238
Index
239
Kyrgyzstan ❍ C. Asia, 194 Nicaragua ❍ C. America, 25 St Helena ❑
Laos ❍ SE. Asia, 206 Nigerr ❍ W. Africa, 72 Pacific Ocean, 130
Latvia ❍ NE. Asia, 115 Nigeria ❍ W. Africa, 88 St Kitts & Nevis ❍
Lebanon ❍ SW. Asia, 176 North Korea ❍ E. Asia, 219 W. Indies, 33
Lesotho ❍ S. Africa, 102 Northern Marianas Islands ❑ St Lucia ❍ W. Indies, 36
Liberia ❍ W. Africa, 82 Pacific Ocean, 19 St Vincent & the Grenadines ❍
Libya ❍ N. Africa, 59 Norway ❍ N. Europe, 110 W. Indies, 37
Liechtenstein ❍ Niue ❑ Pacific Ocean, 236 Sudan ❍ E. Africa, 61
SE. Europe, 148 Oman ❍ SW. Asia, 183 Suriname ❍ S. America, 44
Lithuania ❍ NE. Europe, 116 Pakistan ❍ S. Asia, 197 Swaziland ❍ S. Africa, 103
Luxembourg g❍ Palau ❍ Pacific Ocean, 228 Sweden ❍ N. Europe, 112
NE. Europe, 132 Panama ❍ C. America, 27 Switzerland ❍ C. Europe, 143
Macedonia ❍ SE. Europe, 161 Papua New Guinea ❍ Canton Flags, 144–147
Macao, seee China, 218 Indian/Pacific Ocean, 226 Syria ❍ SW. Asia, 177
Madagascarr ❍ Paraguay ❍ S. America, 53 Taiwan ❍ SE. Asia, 217
Indian Ocean, 107 Peru ❍ S. America, 46 Tajikistan ❍ C. Asia, 195
Malawi ❍ SE. Africa, 97 Philippines ❍ SW. Asia, 216 Tanzania ❍ E. Africa, 96
Malaysia ❍ SE. Asia, 209 Pitcairn Islands ❑ Thailand ❍ SE. Asia, 205
State flags, 210–211 Pacific Ocean, 130 Togo ❍ W. Africa, 86
Maldives ❍ Poland ❍ N. Europe, 117 Tonga ❍ Pacific Ocean, 235
Indian Ocean, 201 Portugal ❍ SW. Europe, 135 Trinidad & Tobago ❍
Mali ❍ W. Africa, 75 Puerto Rico ❑ W. Indies, 19 W. Indies, 40
Malta ❍ S. Europe, 140 Qatarr ❍ SW. Asia, 185 Tunisia ❍ N. Africa, 58
Marshall Islands ❍ Romania ❍ SE. Europe, 164 Turkey ❍ Asia/Europe, 174
Pacific Ocean, 230 Russian Federation ❍ Turkmenistan ❍ C. Asia, 190
Mauritania ❍ W. Africa, 74 Europe/Asia, 168 Turks and Caicos Islands ❑
Mauritius ❍ Republic flags, 169–171 Pacific Ocean, 130
Indian Ocean, 108 Rwanda ❍ C. Africa, 68 Tuvalu ❍ Pacific Ocean, 233
Mexico ❍ C. America, 20 Samoa ❍ Pacific Ocean, 234 Uganda ❍ E. Africa, 66
Micronesia ❍ San Marino ❍ S. Europe, 142 Ukraine ❍ E. Europe, 167
Pacific Ocean, 229 Sao Tome & Principe ❍ United Arab Emirates ❍
State flags, 229 W. Africa, 91 SW. Asia, 184
Moldova ❍ SE. Europe, 165 Saudi Arabia ❍ SW. Asia, 181 United Kingdom ❍
Monaco ❍ S. Europe, 133 Senegal ❍ W. Africa, 76 NW. Europe, 126
Mongolia ❍ E. Asia, 193 Serbia ❍ C. Europe, 158 Regional flags, 127–130
Monserrat ❑ W. Indies, 130 Seychelles ❍ United States of America ❍
Montenegro ❍ C. Europe, 157 Indian Ocean, 105 N. America, 11
Morocco ❍ N. Africa, 56 Sierra Leone ❍ W. Africa, 81 State flags, 13–19
Mozambique ❍ S. Africa, 99 Singapore ❍ SE. Asia, 214 Uruguay ❍ S. America, 54
Myanmarr ❍ SE. Asia, 204 Slovakia ❍ C. Europe, 153 Uzbekistan ❍ C. Asia, 191
Namibia ❍ S. Africa, 100 Slovenia ❍ C. Europe, 154 Vanuatu ❍ Pacific Ocean, 224
Nauru ❍ Pacific Ocean, 231 Soloman Islands ❍ Vatican City ❍ S. Europe, 141
Nepal ❍ S. Asia, 198 Pacific Ocean, 227 Venezuela ❍ S. America, 42
Netherlands ❍ Somalia ❍ E. Africa, 65 Vietnam ❍ SE. Asia, 208
NW. Europe, 121 South Africa ❍ S. Africa, 104 Virgin Islands (US) ❑
Provincial flags, 122–123 South Korea ❍ E. Asia, 220 W. Indies, 19
Netherlands Antilles ❑ Spain ❍ Yemen ❍ SW. Asia, 182
W. Indies, 123 SE. Europe, 136 Zambia ❍ S. Africa, 95
New Zealand ❍ Regional Flags, 137–138 Zimbabwe ❍ S. Africa, 98
Pacific Ocean, 236 Sri Lanka ❍ S. Asia, 202
This page intentionally left blank
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