Tonga Flag Coloring Page

The flag of Tonga is a distinctive red field with a white canton in the upper hoist-side corner, featuring a red cross. The flag is known as the ""Taufa'ahau Tupou IV"" flag, named after the late King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV, who introduced it in 1875. It is one of the oldest continuously used national flags in the world. The red field represents the blood of the Tongan people, symbolizing their sacrifice and unity. The white canton with the red cross is a Christian symbol, reflecting the strong influence of Christianity in Tonga. The cross also represents the country's close ties with the United Kingdom, as Tonga was a British protectorate from 1900 to 1970. The flag's design has remained largely unchanged since its introduction. However, there have been slight modifications over the years. In 1866, King George Tupou I, the founder of modern Tonga, adopted a flag with a red field and a white cross. This flag was later modified by King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV, who added a white canton to the design. The flag of Tonga has significant historical and cultural importance to the Tongan people. It represents their sovereignty and independence, as Tonga is the only Pacific island nation that has never been colonized by a foreign power. The flag is also a symbol of the monarchy, as Tonga is a constitutional monarchy with the King as the head of state. In recent years, there have been discussions and debates about potentially changing the flag to reflect a more modern and inclusive identity. However, the current flag continues to be widely recognized and cherished by the Tongan people as a symbol of their heritage and national pride.