12 Interesting Facts About Flags From Around the World
Flags are meaningful parts of cultures around the world. Their colors and symbols can tell the stories of the rich histories of the nations they represent, but sometimes their designs can reveal even more. Check out these 12 interesting facts about flags from around the world:
Nepal's flag is the only national flag in the world that is not rectangular. The flag is a combination of two pennants, representing the Himalayan Mountains and the two major religions of Nepal, Hinduism, and Buddhism.
The flag of Denmark, also known as the Dannebrog, is the oldest flag in the world. According to legend, it fell from the sky during a battle in 1219 and helped the Danish army win the battle.
The flag of Mozambique is the only flag in the world to feature a modern weapon – an AK-47 – as part of its design. The AK-47 represents the country's struggle for independence.
The flag of the United States of America has gone through 27 different versions since its adoption in 1777. The current flag features 50 stars representing the 50 states and 13 stripes representing the original 13 colonies.
The flag of Saudi Arabia features the Islamic declaration of faith, the shahada, in Arabic calligraphy. It is the only national flag in the world to feature written text.
The flag of the United Kingdom, also known as the Union Jack, is a combination of three flags: the flags of England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Wales is not represented on the flag.
The flag of Canada, also known as the Maple Leaf, was adopted in 1965 and features a stylized red maple leaf on a white background with two red bars on either side. The design was chosen from among thousands of entries in a national competition.
The flag of South Africa features six colors, including black, green, and gold, which represent the country's diversity and natural resources. The flag was adopted in 1994, following the end of apartheid.
The flag of Switzerland is one of only two national flags in the world to be square, the other being the flag of Vatican City. The Swiss flag features a white cross on a red background and is one of the most recognizable flags in the world.
The flag of Japan features a red circle on a white background, which represents the rising sun. The design is called the Hinomaru and has been used as a symbol of Japan for centuries.
The flag of Brazil features a green field with a yellow diamond in the center, inside of which is a blue circle with stars representing the night sky over Rio de Janeiro on November 15, 1889 – the day the Brazilian Republic was proclaimed.
The flag of Sweden is blue with a yellow cross, and is thought to have been inspired by the Danish flag. However, the exact origins of the design are unknown.
Flags are more than just symbols – they represent the history, culture, and values of nations around the world. Each flag has its own unique story and meaning, making them special possessions for those who fly them.
