Flags of Antigua and Barbuda

The flag of Antigua and Barbuda is a unique and vibrant symbol representing the nation. Here are some facts about the flag:

  1. Design: The flag consists of a red base with a bold black triangle pointing towards the hoist side. Inside the triangle, there is a rising sun with a yellow outline. The sun is depicted with seventeen rays, representing the number of administrative divisions in Antigua and Barbuda.
  2. History: The flag was adopted on February 27, 1967, when Antigua and Barbuda gained independence from the United Kingdom. The design was chosen through a national competition, and the winning entry was submitted by a high school student named Reginald Samuel.
  3. Colors: The flag primarily features three colors: red, black, and yellow. Red symbolizes the energy of the people, black represents the African heritage, and yellow stands for the sun, sand, and sea of the islands.
  4. Rising Sun: The rising sun on the flag represents a new era, symbolizing the dawning of a bright future for Antigua and Barbuda as an independent nation.
  5. Shape: The flag’s distinctive shape, with the black triangle pointing towards the hoist side, is known as a triband design. It is relatively rare among national flags.
  6. Union Jack: The flag of Antigua and Barbuda used to include the Union Jack of the United Kingdom in the canton (upper left corner) before gaining independence. However, it was removed upon independence to create a unique and independent national symbol.
  7. Flag Day: Antigua and Barbuda celebrates Flag Day on February 27 each year to commemorate the adoption of their national flag. It is a day of national pride and patriotism.
  8. Variations: The flag has two versions: a civil ensign and a state ensign. The civil ensign has a white border around the black triangle and is used by civilian vessels, while the state ensign is used by government ships and has a red border around the triangle.

The flag of Antigua and Barbuda represents the country’s history, natural beauty, and aspirations as an independent nation in the Caribbean region.