Canadian Flag

The Canadian flag, often referred to as the Maple Leaf, is the national flag of Canada. It features a red field with a white square at its center bearing a stylized red 11-point maple leaf. The flag is a powerful national symbol and a unifying emblem recognized around the world.

Design and Symbolism

• Red and white are the official colours of Canada, proclaimed by King George V in 1921.
• The red maple leaf has been associated with Canadian identity and nature since the 18th century.
• The two vertical red bands represent the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.
• The white square symbolizes peace and neutrality.

Flag Specifications

• Ratio: 1:2
• Maple Leaf: Stylized with 11 points, symmetrical
• Adopted: February 15, 1965

History

Before the Maple Leaf

Before 1965, Canada used various British flags, including:

• The **Union Jack** for official use
• The **Red Ensign** (with the Canadian coat of arms) for unofficial national use

The Great Flag Debate

In the early 1960s, Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson initiated a push for a uniquely Canadian flag. This led to months of intense national debate over design, history, and identity. The process included:

• Thousands of public submissions
• Fierce parliamentary debates
• National division over whether to drop British symbols

Adoption

The final design, created by **George F.G. Stanley** and inspired by the flag of the Royal Military College of Canada, was approved by Parliament and officially raised on **February 15, 1965**. This date is now celebrated as **National Flag of Canada Day**.

Flag Etiquette

According to Canadian Heritage guidelines:

• The flag must never touch the ground or be used as a covering.
• It should always be flown upright and in good condition.
• When displayed with other flags, the Canadian flag should be in the position of honour.

Use and Display

The Canadian flag is flown:

• At all federal government buildings
• At schools, embassies, and international events
• On public holidays such as Canada Day, Remembrance Day, and Flag Day
• At sporting events, especially the Olympics and international competitions

Flag Day

• **National Flag of Canada Day** is observed on **February 15** each year.
• It commemorates the day the flag was first raised in 1965.
• While not a statutory holiday, it is marked by ceremonies and educational activities.

Related Symbols

• Maple Leaf
• Canadian Coat of Arms
• O Canada
• National Symbols of Canada

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The Canadian flag is more than a banner. It is a symbol of unity, independence, and pride — instantly recognizable across the globe.