Northern Mariana Islands Flag Meaning
A blue field with a white star and gray latte stone behind it, surrounded by a decorative wreath. The flag represents the islands’ indigenous culture, U.S. affiliation, and Pacific identity.
- Continent
- Oceania
- Adopted
- 1985
- Ratio
- 1:2
- Colors
- blue, white, gray, brown, green
- Designer
- Local design reflecting Chamorro and Carolinian cultures
Symbolism
Blue Field: Represents the Pacific Ocean and the Mariana Islands’ location.
White Star: Symbolizes the islands’ political union with the United States.
Latte Stone: Traditional stone pillar used by Chamorro people, symbolizing cultural heritage.
Decorative Wreath: Represents Carolinian traditions and the blending of island cultures.
History
- Pre-Colonial: Inhabited by Chamorro people for thousands of years.
- 16th Century: Claimed by Spain as part of the Mariana Islands.
- 1899: Germany purchased the islands from Spain; later occupied by Japan in World War I.
- 1944: U.S. forces captured the islands during World War II.
- 1978: Became a U.S. Commonwealth with self-governance.
- 1985: Flag adopted to symbolize cultural heritage and U.S. affiliation.
Trivia
- The Northern Mariana Islands are a U.S. territory in political union with the United States.
- The latte stone is a symbol unique to the Mariana Islands.
- Saipan is the largest and most populated island.
- The islands were a major battleground in World War II.
- The flag uniquely blends indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian cultural motifs.
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