Flag of South Africa (1928–1994) facts for kids
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The flag of South Africa from 1928 to 1994 was the official flag of the country for many years. It was first used by the Union of South Africa starting in 1928. Later, when the country became the Republic of South Africa in 1961, the same flag continued to be used. It was finally replaced in 1994.
This flag was also used in South-West Africa (which is now known as Namibia).
Contents
Understanding the Flag's Design
The flag had a simple design with three horizontal stripes. These stripes were orange at the top, white in the middle, and blue at the bottom.
Small Flags within the Design
In the very center of the white stripe, there were three smaller flags.
- On the left side, there was the Union Jack, which is the flag of the United Kingdom.
- In the middle, there was a vertical version of the flag of the Orange Free State.
- On the right side, you could see the flag of the South African Republic.
Why the Flag Was Replaced
The flag used from 1928 to 1994 is now seen by many as a symbol of Apartheid. Apartheid was a system in South Africa where people were separated and treated unfairly based on their race. Because this flag was used during that time, it is now often considered a symbol of racism and hate.
The End of an Era
In 1994, South Africa became a democratic country, and the Apartheid system ended. With this big change, a new flag of South Africa was introduced. This new flag represents the unity and diversity of all people in South Africa today.
Images for kids
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A flag is not just a piece of cloth. It stands for a nation's existence and feelings. ~ D. F. Malan
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The old flag flying at the Castle of Good Hope in 2006.
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This stained-glass window in Scotland shows the pre-1994 flag. It remembers a disaster where one South African died.
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