The History of Famous Flags and Their Meanings

The Soviet Union’s flag used from 1923 to 1991 featured the hammer and sickle for workers and peasants on red for revolution.

Ukraine’s flag from 1918 and re-adopted in 1991 has blue for the sky and yellow for wheat fields symbolizing freedom.

Kenya’s flag adopted in 1963 uses black for the people red for blood spilled and green for wealth with a Maasai shield.

Bhutan’s flag from 1969 features the Druk (Thunder Dragon) with orange and yellow for monasteries and royalty.

Japan’s "Nisshoki" adopted in 1870 uses the sun symbol from ancient mythology tied to the imperial family.

Venezuela’s flag from 1811 shares colors with Colombia and Ecuador symbolizing their independence struggles.

Canada’s red and white flag with a maple leaf signifies independence from British rule finalized in 1965.

Italy’s tricolor adopted in 1797 reflects liberty and equality influenced by France’s revolutionary flag.

England’s flag used since the 13th century features St. George’s Cross a symbol from the Crusades.

The U.S. flag’s 50 stars symbolize the 50 states adopted in 1960 after Hawaii joined with stripes for the original 13 colonies.