Why Is the Maple Leaf Important to Canada?

The maple leaf is part of the Canadian flag

The maple tree has always been a big part of the culture of Canada, playing a huge role in their maple syrup industry and their logging and wood industries. It was natural for the maple leaf to become an important symbol of the country.

History

The early peoples of Canada made great use of the maple tree and its multiple products, leading to the maple leaf already being a symbol of the region by the year 1700. The St. Jean Baptiste Society settled on the maple leaf as its symbol in 1834.

Function

In August of 1860, a visit by the Prince of Wales to Canada had Canadian-born citizens scrambling to find a suitable emblem to wear to show they were born there. The notion that these people should wear a maple leaf on their clothing took hold for the occasion and stayed popular.

Song

A national song written by Alexander Muir in 1867 prominently mentioned the maple leaf, further cementing it in Canada's consciousness.

Types

Eventually the maple leaf appeared on currency, coins, military badges and equipment. In February of 1965, the national flag of Canada debuted with a red maple leaf in its center.

Identification

The flag features red on each side with a white center, in which the three-lobed red leaf sits.

References

• The Maple Leaf: Canadian Heritage
• Canada: Flagspot