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Flag of Cuba

The "La Estrella Solitaria"

North America
9.7M
1902
Flag of Cuba
CU | 1:2

Official Palette

Symbolism

The three blue stripes refer to the three old divisions of the island, and the two white stripes represent the purity of the independence ideal. The red triangle stands for equality, fraternity, and freedom, and the white star represents the new republic.

History

Designed in 1849 by Narciso López, an anti-Spanish exile in New York. It became the official national flag in 1902 upon independence from the US.

Construction

A 1:2 ratio. Five alternating horizontal stripes (three blue, two white) and a red equilateral triangle at the hoist containing a white five-pointed star.

Color Meanings

blue: The three historical divisions of the island
white: Purity of the independence ideal
red: Equality, fraternity, and freedom

Country Facts

Population
9.7M

1.6% of North America

Capital
Havana
Languages
Spanish
Continent
North America
Subregion
Caribbean
Landlocked
Island state
ISO 3166-1
CU

Flag Identification

Adopted
May 20, 1902
Designer
Narciso López
Proportions

1:2

12
Total Colors
3
Primary Layout
Horizontal bands
Key Symbols
Emblem, Stars

Influences

Stars and Stripes of the United States

Related flags

Flag Protocol

  • The white star must point directly upwards
  • Never flown alongside the flag of an enemy state

Practice

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