Flag Overview
The Algerian flag is half green on the left side and half white on the right side with a crescent moon and star in the center.
Meaning of the Flag
The flag of Algeria features two vertical bands with a red star and a red crescent moon centered directly over the two bands. The crescent moon, five-pointed star, and the color green used on the flag are all symbols of Islam, which is the official religion of Algeria.
Colors of the Flag
The design of the flag features two vertical bars making up the background. The bar on the hoist side is green, while the other bar is white. Centered on the flag is a red crescent moon and star. The colors and emblems on the flag represent the state’s religion of Islam.
History of the Flag
The use of flags with crescent moons have long held a place in Algeria’s history. These flags were first flown by Algerian pirates dating back to at least the 15th century. Because the crescent is a symbol of Islam, this carried over into the national flag. A similar version of the flag was used in 1958 through 1962. However, the current flag was first adopted on July 3, 1962 and has been in use ever since.
Flag Facts
The nation has specific laws about the features of national flags, including the colors. Among these regulations are that the color green used in the flags must be equal parts yellow and blue and the red must be a “pure” red that does not have blue or yellow tones.
