The blue square represents the sky and the Pacific Ocean. The white band represents the snow-covered Andes, and the red band represents the blood spilled to achieve independence. The lone white star is a guide to progress and honor.
History
Known as 'La Estrella Solitaria' (The Lone Star), it was adopted on October 18, 1817. It predates the flag of Texas (which has a similar design).
Construction
A 2:3 ratio. Two unequal horizontal bands of white and red. A blue square the same height as the white band sits at the hoist, containing a white five-pointed star.