Why Is the Canadian Flag Red & White?
Canada lies north of the United States and stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. It is a country rich in natural resources, wildlife and beauty. Canada is the world's second-largest country and the one of the world's wealthiest. It has a parliamentary government and its democratic traditions run strong and deep.
Other People Are Reading
-
History
-
Canada did not have its own flag until 1965. Previously the Royal Union flag was flown. This flag was also called the Union Jack.
The Red Ensign
-
From 1870 to 1925 The Red Ensign flag was flown. This flag had the Union Jack symbol (the traditonal flag of the United Kingdom) in the upper left corner and the shield of the coat of arms of the Canadian provinces in the center.
-
Creating a New Flag
-
Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King attempted to create a new flag for Canada in 1925 and again in 1946, but his attempts were not successful. In 1964 Prime Minister Lester Pearson gave a 15-member panel just six weeks to design a new flag.
The Red and White Maple Leaf
-
In 1964, Professor George Malley of the Royal Military College in Kingston described his idea for the current red and white flag featuring a maple leaf. The simple yet profound design could be attributed to short time frame allotted, however, it truly reflects the Canadian heritage.
Considerations
-
Two members of the deciding panel, Mr. John Matheson, a member of the Canadian parliament, and Dr. George Stanley of the Royal College, were influential in the color choice and design. Red and white have been Canada's national colors since proclaimed such by King Georg V in 1921.
The Maple Leaf
-
The patriotic song "The Maple Leaf For Ever" has been sung since Canada became a country in 1867. The Canadian Maple Leaf symbol was on every battalion's insignia in World War I and Prime Minister Pearson maintained he would fight to have the maple leaf on Canada's flag.
-
