The national flag of Jamaica was adopted on August 6, 1962, the day Jamaica gained independence from the United Kingdom. The flag was designed through a national competition held to create a symbol of the country’s newfound sovereignty. The initial design featured horizontal stripes, but it was later changed to a diagonal cross to avoid similarities with other national flags. The flag’s final design was chosen by a bipartisan committee of the Jamaican House of Representatives.
The Jamaican flag consists of a diagonal cross (or saltire) that divides the flag into four triangles: two green (top and bottom) and two black (hoist side and fly side). The diagonal cross is yellow.
Since its adoption, the Jamaican flag has been a powerful symbol of national pride and identity. It represents the country’s resilience, natural beauty, and the enduring spirit of its people. The flag’s unique design and vibrant colors make it one of the most recognizable flags in the world, embodying the rich cultural heritage and the aspirations of Jamaica.