The Northern Mariana Islands
The flag of the Northern Mariana Islands features a blue field with a white star in the center. Surrounding the star is a gray latte stone, a symbol of the Chamorro culture, and a decorative wreath made up of two native flowers. The blue field represents the vast Pacific Ocean, the white star signifies the Commonwealth itself, the latte stone underscores the islands' Chamorro heritage, and the floral wreath, composed of mwar (Marianas ginger) and plumeria, symbolizes the beauty of the natural world in the Marianas.
History of The Northern Mariana Islands
The flag of the Northern Mariana Islands was officially adopted on July 4, 1976, following a design contest that led to the creation of the current flag. This adoption came about as a result of the Northern Mariana Islands establishing itself as a Commonwealth in political union with the United States, seeking to create a symbol that reflected its unique heritage, culture, and the natural beauty of the islands. The design elements of the flag incorporate significant cultural symbols, such as the latte stone, which is a traditional Chamorro pillar stone used as a foundation for buildings, and has since become an emblem of the Chamorro identity and their enduring connection to the islands. The adoption of the flag marked an important step in the Northern Mariana Islands' journey towards self-determination and political identity, intertwining cultural pride with its aspirations for the future.