Canada’s national flag is a red-and-white design with a single stylised 11-point maple leaf in the centre. It was officially proclaimed in January 1965 and first raised on Parliament Hill on February 15, 1965.
What does the Canadian flag look like?
The flag has two vertical red fields at the sides and a white square in the centre containing a red maple leaf. Its heraldic description is “Gules on a Canadian pale Argent a maple leaf Gules.” The maple leaf has 11 points as part of the graphic design; the number of points does not represent provinces or territories.
Why is there a maple leaf on the flag?
The maple leaf had been used as a Canadian symbol since the 19th century and became especially prominent in military insignia and popular culture. By the time the modern flag was designed, it was already one of the country’s most widely recognised national emblems.
History of Canada’s flag
Before 1965, Canada used several flags reflecting its British and colonial history, including the Royal Union Flag and versions of the Canadian Red Ensign. During the Great Flag Debate of 1964, an all-party parliamentary committee reviewed thousands of proposals. The selected red-and-white maple leaf design was approved by Parliament, proclaimed by Queen Elizabeth II on January 28, 1965, and inaugurated on February 15.
Canada flag facts
- Colors: red and white
- Central symbol: 11-point maple leaf
- Proclaimed: January 28, 1965
- First raised: February 15, 1965
- National Flag of Canada Day: February 15
Sources
Primary references: Government of Canada — history of the National Flag and National Flag of Canada.
