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Flag of Canada

The Flag of Canada, commonly called the Canadian flag or the Maple Leaf, is the national flag of Canada.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 12, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Flag of Canada, commonly called the Canadian flag or the Maple Leaf, is the national flag of Canada. It was officially adopted in 1965 and features two red vertical bands and a white square with a stylized red 11-point maple leaf at the centre. The design is widely recognized as a symbol of Canadian identity, unity, and sovereignty.

Design

The flag has a red field on each side and a white square in the middle bearing a stylized red 11-point maple leaf. Its proportions and simplified design were chosen for clear identification and strong visual impact.

Adoption and history

The modern flag was approved by Parliament in 1964 and first raised on February 15, 1965. Its adoption followed a major public and parliamentary debate over replacing earlier Canadian flag designs.

Symbolism

The flag is commonly understood to represent Canadian identity and unity. The maple leaf is a long-standing Canadian emblem, while red and white are Canada’s official national colours.

Use and recognition

The flag is one of Canada’s most recognizable national symbols and is used widely at official events, government buildings, and international settings. It is commonly referred to as the Maple Leaf flag.

Key facts

  • The current flag became official on February 15, 1965.
  • It was approved by Parliament in 1964 and proclaimed by royal proclamation in 1965.
  • The design is based on a proposal by historian George F. G. Stanley.
  • The maple leaf has been used as a symbol of Canadian identity since the 19th century.
  • Red and white are Canada’s national colours.
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Canadian context

This is one of Canada’s principal national symbols and is directly relevant to Canadian identity, citizenship, public ceremonies, and state representation.

Frequently asked questions

What does the Canadian flag represent?
It represents Canadian identity, unity, and sovereignty. The maple leaf is a long-standing symbol of Canada, and the red-and-white design is associated with the country’s national colours.
When was the Canadian flag adopted?
The current Canadian flag was officially adopted on February 15, 1965. Parliament approved the design in 1964, followed by royal proclamation in 1965.
Who designed the Canadian flag?
The current flag design was created by George F. G. Stanley, a historian. His proposal was selected after debate over a new national flag.
What is the meaning of the Canadian flag?
Its meaning is commonly linked to unity, Canadian identity, and national pride. The maple leaf symbolizes Canada, while red and white are the national colours.
What is the Canadian flag history?
Canada used earlier flags before 1965, including versions incorporating British symbols. The modern Maple Leaf flag emerged after parliamentary debate and was first hoisted on February 15, 1965.
Why does the Canadian flag have a maple leaf?
The maple leaf is a long-established symbol of Canada and has appeared on Canadian insignia since the 19th century. It was chosen to give the flag a distinctive Canadian symbol.

References

  1. Government of Canada — https://www.canada.ca/en/services/culture/canadian-identity-society/anthems-symbols/national-flag.html
    Supports: States that the national flag symbolizes pride and strength in Canadian history.
  2. Government of Canada — https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/flag-canada-description.html
    Supports: Gives the flag’s official description, notes parliamentary approval in 1964, royal proclamation in 1965, and first hoisting on February 15, 1965.
  3. The Canadian Encyclopedia — https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/national-flag-of-canada
    Supports: Describes the flag’s design and identifies it as the National Flag of Canada / Maple Leaf flag.
  4. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/flag-of-Canada
    Supports: Provides adoption date, history of debate, and identifies George Stanley’s proposal as the basis of the present design.
  5. Parks Canada — https://www.pc.gc.ca/apps/dfhd/page_nhs_eng.aspx?id=14372
    Supports: Explains the flag’s symbolism in relation to Canadian sovereignty, citizenship, and multicultural identity.