Trinidad and Tobago Flag

Meaning of the Flag

The national flag of Trinidad and Tobago uses three colors to represent the elements of earth, fire, and water. Each element also represents traits including purity, equality, and courage. We’ll explore these specific colors and what each means in the next section.

Colors of the Flag

The Trinidadian flag features a black diagonal band that runs from the upper hoist to the lower fly side. The band has a smaller white band on each side. This design is featured on a red field.

The color black was chosen to represent the earth. It is also a symbol of dedication. The color white is used to represent water, which is a symbol of equality and purity. Finally, the color red symbolizes fire. It is also a symbol of the sun, which represents courage.

History of the Flag

Upon receiving its independence from the United Kingdom in 1962, Trinidad and Tobago adopted its national flag that is still in use today. The flag, which was designed by Carlisle Chang, was selected by the nation’s independence committee.

Before this flag went into use, the nation used colonial flags featuring the British blue ensign defaced with a badge. The badge on this flag featured a ship and a mountain. The design changed slightly over the years, until the nation became independent. On August 31, 1962, the national flag was adopted and has not been changed since.