The Flag of Martinique
The flag of Martinique is unofficially represented by a red field with a blue cross extending to all edges and a white snake in each of the four quadrants. It is often referred to as the 'Snake Flag.' The official flag of Martinique, used for administrative purposes, is actually the flag of France, due to Martinique's status as an overseas region of France.
History of The Flag of Martinique
The 'Snake Flag' is derived from the naval ensign of the French colonial period, specifically designed for the Lesser Antilles. Introduced in the 1760s, it features snakes that likely represent the fer-de-lance, a type of venomous snake found in Martinique. Despite its historical roots, this flag is not officially recognized and is used more in a local and cultural context rather than for official state purposes. Martinique's official flag for governmental use is the French Tricolor, symbolizing the island's integration into the French Republic as an overseas region. The persistence of the 'Snake Flag' underscores the island's unique cultural identity within the framework of its colonial history and its current status within France.