Canada

About the flag

The maple leaf is Canada’s national emblem, so this is the Canadian flag—officially adopted in 1965 and often called the Maple Leaf (l’Unifolié). Its red and white are Canada’s official colors (proclaimed in 1921). The stylized 11-point leaf symbolizes nature, unity, and the vast forests that shaped the country’s history. Memory tip: Think “maple syrup = maple leaf = Canada.” In contrast, the Dominican Republic’s flag has a central cross and coat of arms, Barbados features a black trident, and Nicaragua shows a triangle with volcanoes. February 15 is National Flag of Canada Day, marking when this design replaced the Red Ensign after a spirited national debate.