The Canadian flag has three vertical red and white stripes, with the right and left stripes being the same width. A red eleven-pointed maple leaf logo is situated in the center of the white center stripe.
The official colors of Canada are red and white, which King George declared to be the nation’s colors in 1921. Red and white were inspired by the Saint George’s Cross and the French royal crest, respectively.
The Canadian national tree is symbolized by the maple leaf in the flag’s center. The Royal Military College of Canada’s flag, often known as the Maple Leaf flag, served as an inspiration for the design of the Canadian flag.
Facts about the Canadian flag |
| Country | Canada |
|---|---|
| Designed by | George F.G. Stanley |
| Adopted | February 15, 1965 |
| Revision | 1497, 1621, 1707, 1663, 1763, 1801, 1964, 1965 |
| Design and Colors | A vertical bicolor triband of red, white, and red in the ratio 1:2:1, with a red maple leaf charged in the center |
| Size Ratio | 1:2 |
| Official Name: | Canada |
| Proportion: | 1:2 |
| Adopted on: | February 15, 1965 |
| Location: | Canada is bordered by the contiguous United States and Alaska |
| Capital City: | Ottawa |
| Major Cities: | Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, Edmonton, Montreal, Halifax, Windsor |
| Area: | 3,854,085 square miles |
| Population: | 3.86 crores as 2022 estimate |
| Currency: | Canadian dollar ($) (CAD) |
| Official Languages: | English and French |
| National Anthem: | O Canada |
| National symbol(s): | maple leaf, beaver |
| National colors: | red, white |
| National anthem: | |
| Name: | “O Canada” |
| Lyrics/Music: | Adolphe-Basile ROUTHIER [French], Robert Stanley WEIR [English]/Calixa LAVALLEE |
Historical Background
The current design of the Canadian flag was officially adopted on February 15, 1965. Prior to this, Canada had used various flags, including the Red Ensign with the Union Jack and the Canadian coat of arms. The desire for a distinctive and unifying national flag grew stronger as Canada moved towards greater autonomy and a stronger sense of national identity.
Design and Colors
The Canadian flag features a stylized red maple leaf in the center, with two vertical red bars on each side. The two bars are of equal width and are white in color. The overall design creates a simple, yet bold and elegant, representation of Canada.
Symbolism of the Canadian Flag
Each element of the Canadian flag holds significant symbolism. The red maple leaf, a symbol of Canada since the 18th century, represents the country’s natural beauty and abundance, as well as the spirit of unity and inclusivity. The two vertical red bars are said to symbolize Canada’s two official languages, English and French, representing the country’s commitment to bilingualism and cultural diversity. The white color signifies peace, honesty, and integrity.
National Flag of Canada Day
National Flag of Canada Day is celebrated on February 15th each year, commemorating the day in 1965 when the current design of the Canadian flag was officially adopted. It is an occasion for celebrations, parades, and flag-raising ceremonies, showcasing the importance of the Canadian flag as a symbol of national identity and unity.
FAQs
Q1: When was the current design of the Canadian flag adopted?
The current design of the Canadian flag was officially adopted on February 15, 1965.
Q2: What do the elements on the Canadian flag symbolize?
The red maple leaf represents Canada’s natural beauty, unity, and inclusivity. The two vertical red bars symbolize Canada’s two official languages, English and French, representing the country’s commitment to bilingualism and cultural diversity. The white color signifies peace, honesty, and integrity.
Q3: What is National Flag of Canada Day?
National Flag of Canada Day is celebrated on February 15th each year, commemorating the day in 1965 when the current design of the Canadian flag was officially adopted.
Q4: Is the maple leaf a symbol of Canada?
Yes, the maple leaf has been a symbol of Canada since the 18th century and is prominently featured on the Canadian flag. It is widely recognized as a symbol of the country’s natural beauty and abundance, as well as a representation of Canadian identity and unity.