The origins of Canada Flag Day

The origins of Canada Flag Day, also known as National Flag of Canada Day or simply Flag Day, can be traced back to the year 1964, when the current design of the Canadian flag was first introduced. This date is significant because it marks the culmination of a process that had been underway for several years, aimed at creating a new national flag that would represent the identity and unity of Canada.

Prior to 1964, the official flag of Canada was the Red Ensign, which included the Union Jack in the top-left corner (the British flag) and the Canadian coat of arms in the fly (the right-hand side). However, as Canada grew as an independent nation, there was a strong desire for a new flag that did not rely on British symbols and that could better reflect Canada's unique identity and heritage.

The process of creating a new flag began in the early 1960s under the leadership of then-Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson. The government established a special parliamentary committee in 1964, the Flag Committee, to consider new designs. The committee received thousands of submissions from Canadians across the country. After much debate and consideration, a design by George Stanley, the Dean of Arts at the Royal Military College of Canada, and John Matheson, an expert on heraldry, was selected. This design featured a red maple leaf on a white square with a red border, set against a field of red and white, the colors of Canada's two founding nations, France and England.

The new flag was officially adopted by an act of parliament on February 15, 1965, and was first raised on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on February 15, 1965. The date of February 15 was chosen to coincide with the anniversary of the Canada's confederation, which took place on July 1, 1867. The adoption of the new flag was controversial at the time, with many Canadians feeling a strong attachment to the old Red Ensign. However, the maple leaf flag has since become a widely recognized and respected symbol of Canada's national identity.

To commemorate the event and the national symbol it represents, February 15 is celebrated as Canada Flag Day. It is not a public holiday, but it is a day for Canadians to reflect on the significance of their flag and what it stands for—the nation's peace, diversity, and unity. The day is marked by ceremonies, parades, and the display of the flag across the country. It is a day of patriotism and national pride.

In summary, Canada Flag Day originates from the adoption of the current Canadian flag design in 1965, which was a significant moment in the country's history that reflected its growing sense of nationhood and independence. The day serves as an annual reminder of this milestone and a celebration of Canada's unique identity.