Explorer

Flag of Samoa

Oceania
205.6K
1949
Flag of Samoa
WS | 1:2

Symbolism

Red stands for courage, white stands for purity, and blue stands for freedom. The five stars represent the Southern Cross constellation, locating the nation geographically and symbolizing its connection to New Zealand.

History

Adopted on February 24, 1949, when Samoa was a UN Trust Territory under New Zealand administration. It was retained upon independence in 1962.

Construction

A 1:2 ratio. A red field with a blue canton containing five white five-pointed stars arranged in the shape of the Southern Cross.

Color Meanings

red: Courage and the blood of the people
white: Purity and the stars of the Southern Cross
blue: Freedom and the sky

Country Facts

Population
205.6K

0.4% of Oceania

Capital
Apia
Languages
English, Samoan
Continent
Oceania
Subregion
Pacific
Landlocked
Island state
ISO 3166-1
WS

Flag Identification

Adopted
February 24, 1949
Designer
Prince Tanumafili II, Malietoa Tanumafili II
Proportions

1:2

12
Total Colors
3
Key Symbols
Canton, Emblem, Stars

Influences

Flag of New Zealand (Southern Cross)

Related flags

Flag Protocol

  • The Southern Cross must be in the canton
  • Must be respected as a symbol of national sovereignty

Practice

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