The Flag of Tonga
The flag of Tonga features a red field with a white canton charged with a red couped cross. The flag's proportions are typically 1:2, and its design is deeply symbolic, representing Christianity, a fundamental aspect of Tongan culture. The white of the flag stands for purity, the red represents the blood of Christ, and the cross signifies the Christian faith.
History of The Flag of Tonga
The flag of Tonga was officially adopted on November 4, 1875, making it one of the oldest national flags in continuous use. The design was proposed by King George Tupou I, who played a significant role in shaping modern Tonga, including its adoption of Christianity. The flag's inception is tied to the king's efforts to design a flag that would symbolize Tonga's embrace of Christianity while distinguishing it from the flags of other nations. Over the years, the flag has remained largely unchanged, a testament to its enduring significance to the Tongan people and their cultural identity. The flag's adoption in 1875 coincided with the drafting of Tonga's first constitution, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's history as it asserted its sovereignty and distinct cultural identity.