Since the creation of Canada in the year 1867, our beautiful nation has gone through many different flags. Over the years we have adopted numerous designs which have all led to the beautiful red and white flag featuring our iconic maple leaf. This is the story about the creation of a national icon.
Up until the year 1965, Canada went through a plethora of flags, however, none truly represented the Canadian spirit which we know very well today. The first flag which Canada had as a nation was the Royal Union Flag, due to Canada’s connection to Britain. Even though Canada adopted a new flag in 1871, the Royal Union flag was still used by Canadian troops in World War I. Today the Royal Union flag is the national flag of Great Britain and still maintains importance in many Commonwealth Nations.
By the year 1871, Canada adopted its first unique flag which bore the arms of Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. The flag was known as the Red Ensign and became the national icon until 1921. During this time period, other arms were added to the flag to accommodate for newly joined provinces of Canada, causing the Red Ensign to sport numerous variations.
In 1921 the Royal Ensign was changed to bear the Royal coat of arms of Canada, or more commonly known as the Canada Coat of Arms. The Royal Ensign was added to Canadian government buildings across Canada and was also authorized to be displayed on federal government buildings. In 1957 the red Ensign received a modification which changed the color of the maple leaf from green to red. This flag was used until the modern flag we have today.
In the year of 1964 Prime Minister Lester B. Person believed that Canada needed to adopt a national emblem which would represent the values which Canada stands for. He proposed a flag which would truly represent Canada as a nation. However, it was not that easy, prior to the adoption of the flag in 1965 there was heated debate and stiff opposition.Ultimately Lester B. Pearson prevailed and a national icon was born. Today the flag of Canada is a national icon which is recognized around the world, no wonder it only took us 98 years to get it perfect.
