Caribbean
Cuba
Five horizontal stripes of blue and white with a red hoist triangle bearing a white five-pointed star. The design was created in the 19th century by Cuban independence supporters and became the national flag when Cuba formally became independent in 1902.
Adopted
1902
Proportion
1:2
Colours
3
Colours & their meaning
Blue
The three blue stripes are commonly said to represent the three military departments into which colonial Cuba was divided.
White
Commonly interpreted as purity and the strength of the independence cause.
Red
Commonly said to symbolize the blood shed in the struggle for independence.
Symbols & emblems
White star
The single star, known as the Lone Star, represents Cuba’s independence and sovereignty.
Red triangle
The triangle is commonly linked to liberty, equality and fraternity, and is also often associated with Masonic symbolism.
Did you know?
Cuba’s flag was first raised in 1850 during Narciso López’s failed expedition, more than 50 years before it became the national flag.