Page 232 - (DK) Complete Flags of the World
P. 232
Australasia and Oceania
Palau
Ratio: 5:8 Adopted: January 1, 1981 Usage: National and Civil
The golden disc Blue symbolizes the
depicts the full freedom of self-rule
moon, considered
by Palauans to be
the best time for
celebrations and
harvesting
The full moon is set
slightly toward the hoist
Under US control since 1945, Palau became a
republic in 1981. In 1994, it became independent
in association with the United States.
The current flag was introduced in sits slightly off center toward the
1981 when Palau became a republic. hoist, represents the full moon. The
Previously, the flag of the Trust Palauans consider the full moon to be
Territory of the Pacific Islands was the optimum time for human activity.
flown jointly with the United This time of the month when
Nations and United States flags. celebrations, harvesting and planting,
fishing, tree-felling, and the carving
THE SYMBOLISM OF THE FLAG of traditional canoes are carried out.
The flag’s very simple design belies The moon is a symbol of peace, love
the depth of meaning attributed to it. and tranquility.
The explanation for the choice of
colors is rooted in the history and THE SEAL OF PALAU
customs of the Palauan people. Palau does not have a coat of arms,
The bright blue of the field, which but has a seal, adopted in 1981, when
might be assumed to be symbolic the country became a republic. The
of the Pacific Ocean, is in fact a seal is not colored. It depicts a
representation of the transition traditional Palauan triangular hut,
from foreign domination to self- above the date of adoption. This is
government. The golden disc, which surrounded by the title of the state.
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