Trinidad and Tobago adopted its flag on August 31, 1962, the day it became independent from the United Kingdom.
Chosen for independence
Before 1962 the islands flew a British colonial flag, a Union Jack with a local badge. Independence required something else. A national competition was held, an Independence Committee took charge of the selection, and the winning design came from the artist Carlisle Chang. The choice was part of the wider work of settling what the new country would look like to itself and to everyone else.
Red, black, and white
The flag is a red field with a black diagonal band edged in white. Red carries the most in the design: the island sun, the energy of the people, and the struggle for freedom. The black band stands for strength and unity, and for the resources of the land. The white edging represents the sea around the islands and the purity of the country's aims.
Where it is flown
The flag is displayed on government buildings, at national events, and in schools, and there is protocol for how it is raised, lowered, and flown during periods of mourning. A naval ensign exists for maritime use, keeping the core design with changes for its particular role.
The flag is at its most visible during Independence Day and Carnival, and abroad it stands in for the country at sporting events and diplomatic occasions. At home it is one of the few symbols shared across the islands' many ethnic communities.
References
[1] Government of Trinidad and Tobago Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs. Flag of Trinidad and Tobago. Retrieved from gov.tt
[2] International Federation of Vexillological Associations (FIAV) Vexillology Resources. Retrieved from vexillology.org
[3] Historical Archives, National Library and Information System Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (NALIS) Records. Retrieved from nalis.gov.tt