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Bahamas Flags
The Bahamas Flag, Symbol of the Black Triangle, Colors and Meaning
Consisting of three horizontal stripes of aquamarine, gold, and aquamarine and a black equilateral triangle on the hoist side, the flag of the Bahamas is rich in color and in meaning. The aquamarine stripes that outline the gold are representative of the North Atlantic Ocean that surrounds the island chain, while the gold stripe represents the golden sand of the Bahamian beaches as well as the abundance of sunshine they see. The black triangle is an emblem of strength, unity, vigor, and force of the Bahamian people. The direction of the triangle epitomizes the "enterprising and determined," mindset of the people to make the most of the cultivation of the area's natural resources that are readily available, both on land and the sea. This flag has been used as the official flag of the Bahamas since its independence was gained as a Commonwealth nation in 1973.
What we Offer
Whether you are a native of the vast island chain or you simply want to wave the flag of your favorite vacation hot spot, the United States Flag Store has got you covered. We have a wonderful assortment of flags to make sure your needs are met.
From the smaller 4-inch by 6-inch stick flags, great for parties, parades, and other celebrations related to the Bahamas to the more mammoth statements that measure 6ft by 10ft, we keep them in stock.
Are you looking for the classic 3ft by 5ft flag? We have those too, available in soft and vivid nylon that is suitable for the outdoors and in the economical printed polyester to put inside your home.
Most of our Bahamas flags are made right here in the United States.
History of the Bahamas
The Bahamas is an archipelago consisting of over 700 islands and cays located in the Atlantic Ocean. The history of the Bahamas dates back thousands of years to the time of the indigenous Lucayan people. The Lucayans were Arawakan-speaking people who lived on the islands before the arrival of the Europeans. The Bahamas would finally gain their independence and become a Commonwealth Nation on July 10th, 1973.
Prior to its independence and the islands becoming the premier travel destination and tourist attraction it is today, the Bahamas wasn't always a tropical paradise.
The very early inhabitants came as early as 300 to 400 AD from what is now Cuba with the Lucayan people settling in from 900-1500 AD. The Lucayans utilized the ocean for their primary food supply and are thought to have migrated from South America. These people had their own political, social, and religious systems in place and lived a fairly peaceful existence throughout their time.
The islands wouldn't see European settlers until 1492 when Christopher Columbus reached the shores of San Salvador as part of his "New World," journey. He would go on to describe the area as "baja mar," which is Spanish for shallow sea and ultimately what would go on to influence the island chain's name. At the time of Columbus' visit, it is said that there were around 30 to 40 thousand Lucayans who inhabited the islands. At the time of its discovery, Columbus would claim the islands for the Spanish Crown. Unfortunately, with their peaceful demeanor and the arrival of the Europeans, a downfall of the already established natives was set to take place.
This time would bring with it drastic changes to the indigenous population, including forced labor and the spread of diseases, both of which led to the decline of Lucayan society. The Spanish would move many of the Lucayans from their homes to the neighboring island of Hispaniola where they would live out their lives as slaves. The islands of the Bahamas would remain uninhabited for nearly a century and a half due to this and the numerous diseases brought over by the Europeans.
The Islands become Populated Again
With most of her native people gone, the area would be ripe for the taking with English colonists, pirates, and eventually the British Crown claiming their stake. English colonists from Bermuda settled on the island of Eleuthera in 1648, although most found life incredibly difficult to sustain themselves, with many deciding to stay back in Bermuda. The people that stuck it out were known as the Eleutherian Adventurers and gave the island its name which is the Greek word for, "free." These people were Puritans who sought religious freedom and managed to survive off of recovered goods that were obtained via shipwrecks in the shallow waters of the Bahamas.
The Late 18th Century
For the next couple of centuries, the Bahamas became a haven for pirates and privateers due to its strategic location and numerous hiding places among the islands. Famous pirates such as Blackbeard and Calico Jack operated in the waters surrounding the Bahamas. Being so close to prominent shipping lanes and having such shallow waters with over 700 islands made the area an ideal place to not only attack trade ships but also to hide both themselves and the treasure stolen from these ships.
Officially becoming a British Crown Colony in 1718, approximately 70 years after the Eletherian Adventurers established a base, the islands would play a significant role in the transatlantic slave trade with many enslaved Africans being brought to the Bahamas to work on plantations.
The Bahamas and its part in the American Revolution
The islands would go on to play a minor role in the American Revolution as the Bahamas was a key target for the United States Navy. This was due to the fact that the islands were under British control and had even been used in raids on American ships.
Economic Growth
Industries such as salt production, sponging, and shipbuilding would boost economic growth for the Bahamas in the 19th century. The British Empire officially abolished slavery in 1834. While urging other countries to do the same, the islands would continue to see ships that were carrying slaves. Fortunately, with the newly enacted abolition, many of these slaves would be freed by the locals. This led to the release of hundreds of slaves who would go on to become natives on the island chain. This did lead to a decline in the plantation fields of the islands but also was one of the first steps towards them becoming a better place, more resembling what we see today.
Independence and the 20th Century
Finally granted the ability to self-govern in 1964, the Bahamas would undergo significant internal changes. By 1973, the Bahamas would gain full independence from the United Kingdom and become a Commonwealth Nation on July 10, 1973. The country would reach a new level as it would develop into one of the world's most popular tourist destinations with its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and vibrant culture.
Today
Today, the Bahamas is a parliamentary democracy and a member of the Commonwealth of Nations. Its economy relies heavily on tourism, offshore banking, and other financial services. The country continues to attract visitors from around the world who come to enjoy its natural beauty, breathtaking views, and hospitality.
Often used as a "Flag of Convenience," as a Nautical Flag by Merchants on their Boats at Sea
The term "flag of convenience" refers to registering a ship in a country other than the owner's country of origin. This is often done to take advantage of certain benefits or favorable regulations the flag state offers. In the case of the Bahamas, it is known as a "flag of convenience," because it is a popular choice for ship registration due to being quite favorable both in their maritime laws and regulations. Ships registered under the Bahamian flag are subject to the jurisdiction and protection of the Bahamas, even if they are owned and operated by individuals or companies from other countries. This practice allows ship owners to benefit from the Bahamas' reputation as a reliable and reputable flag state.
"Forward, Onward, Upward Together," the Bahamas Motto and Coat of Arms
The motto of the Bahamas is on the Commonwealth's National Coat of Arms and is "Forward Onward Upward Together." This is used in conjunction with the optimum form and direction in which the nation and its people should proceed and advance.
The Coat of Arms also features life that is indigenous to the islands as well as a part of its history. This includes a blue marlin, flamingo, and even an image of the Santa Maria.
Other Flags of the World
We are one of the leading flag manufacturers on the market today and offer over 230 different Commonwealths, Providences, and independent nations in our Flags of the World stock. Whatever flag you want to hoist on your flagpole, you can get it right here from the United States Flag Store.
Who designed the Bahamian flag?
Rev. Dr. Hervis Bain is credited with the design of the Bahamian flag. It was picked on the same day as their independence as part of a regional competition.
Did the Bahamas change their flag?
The flag of the Bahamas has been the same since July 10, 1973.
What was the old Bahamas flag?
Prior to their independence, the Union Jack, or the flag of Great Britain was the primary flag used to represent the islands.
What is the red flag with a white cross in the Bahamas flag?
The red flag with a white cross and the flag of the Bahamas in the upper left corner is the official civil ensign flag of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. This flag is often used on civilian vessels and boats as a way of identification. It is also known as a merchant flag.
Just for Fun
The blue marlin is a national symbol for the Commonwealth Nation.
Lenny Kravitz owns a trailer with some land in the Bahamas. He, in fact, wrote a song titled "Eleutheria," on the island of Eleuthera.
July 10th is the Bahamas Independence Day.
The world's 3rd largest great barrier reef is home to the Bahamas and is more than 190 miles in length.
Ernest Hemingway was a frequent visitor to the Bahamas. It is speculated he may have even written "The Old Man and the Sea," thanks to the area.
English and Creole are the official languages of the Bahamas.
The Bahamian people have one of the biggest Boxing Day celebrations, they call it Junkanoo. This may be because of their history as being a British colony for so long.
