South African Flag
The national flag of the Republic of South Africa is still relatively new, having first been used on 27 April 1994. The country did have an old flag which was used long before this but it was somewhat symbolic of the old South Africa and the many injustices that were suffered in times gone by. The new flag of South Africa is much more striking and whereas much of the old flag was based on the flags of other countries, the new flag is very unique, a fitting symbol of this unique and diverse country. Most South Africans are very proud of the colorful new flag.
The basic design of the flag is rectangular in shape with a V-form flowing from the pole side to a single horizontal band in the middle. This forms a sort of Y-shape which is green in color. The top band is red and the bottom band is blue. The Y-shape is bordered by a white and yellow trim and the triangle formed by the mouth of the Y is black. The colors used in the flag have come from both the previous national flag and the African National Congress flag and though some have assigned them meaning - such as representing the multi-ethnicity of the country - they have no official meaning. The only item with some meaning is that of the converging V-shape with the horizontal band which is generally taken to be symbolic of 'facing the future in unity' and is in harmony with the National Coat of Arms, 'Unity is Strength'.
The South African flag was designed by Mr. F. Brownell, the State Herald and, just as with the flags of other countries, there are certain rules regarding the display and use of the flag. For official events and even private flying of the flag, these regulations can be easily read up on. However, the flag belongs to the people of the country and is most often seen decorating the faces and clothes of enthusiastic sports supporters.