Flag of Angola facts for kids

The national flag of Angola was first used when Angola became an independent country on November 11, 1975. It has two main parts: an upper red half and a lower black half.

What the Flag Looks Like

The Angolan flag is divided into two equal horizontal stripes. The top stripe is red, and the bottom stripe is black. In the very center of the flag, there is a special symbol made of a yellow half-gear, a machete, and a star.

Colors and Their Meanings

The colors on the flag are very important and tell a story about Angola's history and hopes.

• Red: The red color at the top represents the blood shed by Angolans during their fight for freedom. It reminds people of the sacrifices made to become an independent nation.
• Black: The black color at the bottom stands for the African continent. It shows Angola's connection to other African nations and its pride in being part of Africa.

Symbols on the Flag

The yellow symbols in the middle of the flag are also full of meaning.

• Half-Gear: The half of a gear wheel represents the workers and the importance of industry in Angola. It symbolizes progress and the future of the country.
• Machete: The machete is a tool used in farming. It stands for farmers and the agricultural work that is vital to Angola. It also represents the armed struggle for independence.
• Star: The five-pointed yellow star is a symbol of internationalism and progress. It is often seen as a guiding light for the nation's future.

History of the Flag

Before 1975, Angola was a colony of Portugal. When Angola gained its independence, it needed a new flag to represent its new status as a free country. The design chosen was based on the flag of the MPLA (Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola), which was the main group that fought for independence and became the first governing party. The MPLA's flag also had red and black stripes, but with a different symbol in the middle. The current national flag was officially adopted on November 11, 1975, the day Angola became independent.

Images for kids

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  The national flag of Angola, adopted in 1975.

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  The flag of the MPLA, which inspired the national flag.

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  A person holding the Angolan flag in Montreal, Canada.