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Flag of Benin

Africa
13.2M
1960
Flag of Benin
BJ | 2:3

Symbolism

Green represents hope and revival, yellow represents the country's wealth and palm groves, and red represents the courage of ancestors.

History

Adopted in 1959. It was replaced by a different flag during the Marxist-Leninist period (1975–1990) but was restored on August 1, 1990, after the country's return to democracy.

Construction

A 2:3 ratio. A green vertical band on the hoist and two horizontal bands of yellow and red on the fly.

Color Meanings

green: Hope and revival for the nation
yellow: The country's wealth and palm groves
red: The courage and sacrifice of ancestors

Country Facts

Population
13.2M

0.9% of Africa

Capital
Porto-Novo
Languages
French
Continent
Africa
Subregion
West Africa
Landlocked
No
ISO 3166-1
BJ

Flag Identification

Adopted
August 1, 1960
Proportions

2:3 (≈1.500)

23
Total Colors
3
Primary Layout
Horizontal bands

Influences

Pan-African movement and colors

Flags with resemblance

Visually close designs — compare colors and emblems, or try similarities mode.

Related flags

Flag Protocol

  • The vertical green band must be at the hoist
  • The yellow and red bands must be horizontal on the fly side

Practice

Think you know the flags of Africa? Test your recognition in a quick practice round.

Sources

  • Government of Benin
  • FOTW