Who Designed the Trinidad and Tobago Flag?
Unlike some national flags, Trinidad and Tobago’s independence flag is officially attributed to a committee rather than one individual.
The Independence Committee
Government sources state that the national flag was selected from designs created by the Independence Committee in 1962. The committee was appointed as Trinidad and Tobago prepared for independence.
Why there is no single official designer
Public histories often look for one named designer, but the official record credits the committee process. The committee advised on the flag, coat of arms and motto and submitted its report in June 1962.
Artists on the national-emblems committee
Government and archival sources identify notable artists and designers associated with the wider national-emblems committee, including Carlisle Chang and George Bailey. Their documented role is especially clear in relation to the coat of arms and the national-emblems process.
Adoption in 1962
Cabinet approved the committee’s recommendations before independence. The flag entered national use on August 31, 1962.
Related guides
Sources
Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs; NALIS; National Archives of Trinidad and Tobago.
