South African Flag

South African Flag

The Flag of South Africa - Description of the South African Flag

As the above picture of the South African Flag indicates a multi-color flag

The description of the South African Flag is as follows:

Two equal width horizontal bands of red (top) and blue separated by a central green band which splits into a horizontal Y, the arms of which end at the corners of the hoist side

The Y embraces a black isosceles triangle from which the arms are separated by narrow yellow bands

The red and blue bands are separated from the green band and its arms by narrow white stripes

According to Ancient and Heraldic traditions much symbolism is associated with colors. The colors on the South African flag represent the following:

Yellow - a symbol of generosity and for the natural resources i.e. gold

White - peace and honesty and the people of European origin

Red - hardiness, bravery, strength & valour and for bloodshed

Blue - vigilance, truth and loyalty, perseverance & justice and the open blue skies

Green - hope, joy and love and for the land

Black - Determination and the black population

All Flag pictures depict flags flying, from the viewer's point of view, from left to right

The shape and flag ratio of the South African flag is described as 2:3 ( length 1½ times the height )

The left half of the flag ( viewer's left side ) is called the Hoist

The upper left quarter of the flag is called the Canton

The right half of the flag is called the Fly

The Meaning & History of the South African Flag

The 'Y' symbolizes the merging nationalities - i.e. unity

The flag was designed by the South African State Herald, Mr Fred Brownell

The South African national flag of the Republic of South Africa was adopted on April 26th 1994

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