Flag of Qatar facts for kids
The flag of Qatar (Arabic: علم قطر) is a very special symbol for the country of Qatar. It has a white part on the left side, which is called the hoist-side. The rest of the flag is a deep maroon color. These two colors are separated by a zig-zag line made of nine white triangles. This flag was officially chosen on July 9, 1971.
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What Does the Qatari Flag Look Like?
The flag of Qatar is quite unique! It's much longer than it is wide, with a ratio of 11:28. This means it's almost two and a half times longer than its height.
- White Color: The white part of the flag stands for peace and honesty.
- Maroon Color: The maroon color is very important. It represents the blood shed by Qataris in past wars, especially during the Battle of Zubarah. This battle was a significant event in Qatar's history.
- Nine Triangles: The nine triangles that form the zig-zag line are also meaningful. They show that Qatar was the ninth member of the "reconciled emirates" when a treaty was signed with the British in 1916. These emirates later became the United Arab Emirates, but Qatar chose to remain separate.
The History Behind the Flag
Qatar's flag has changed a few times over the years. Before 1971, the flag was actually red and white. However, the red dye used in the region would often fade to a purplish-red or maroon color when exposed to the sun. This unique faded color became associated with Qatar.
Why Maroon?
The decision to officially change the color from red to maroon was made to honor Qatar's history and its people's sacrifices. The maroon color is now a strong symbol of the nation's identity and its past struggles for independence and sovereignty. It's a color that tells a story of resilience and pride.
Evolution of the Design
The nine triangles were added to the flag's design to make it stand out and to represent Qatar's place among the other emirates. This design helps to make the Qatari flag easily recognizable around the world.
Symbolism of the Flag
The flag of Qatar is more than just a piece of cloth; it's a powerful symbol of the nation's history, culture, and values.
- It represents the peace that Qatar seeks to maintain.
- It honors the bravery and sacrifices of its people.
- It signifies Qatar's unique identity and its journey to becoming an independent nation.
When you see the flag of Qatar flying, remember the stories and meanings behind its colors and design!
Images for kids
See also
In Spanish: Bandera de Catar para niños
