History of The Flag of The Cocos (Keeling) Islands
The flag of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands was officially adopted on the 6th of April, 2004. The design was the result of a flag competition held on the island, reflecting the community's desire to have a flag that was representative of their cultural and geographical uniqueness. The islands, first discovered by Europeans in the 17th century and later annexed by the British Empire, have a complex colonial history, including periods of rule by the Clunies-Ross family, who were granted the islands in perpetuity until the Australian government purchased the territory in 1978. The flag is a symbol of the islanders' identity and pride, incorporating elements that reflect the indigenous and colonial influences on the islands' culture and history.