History of the Flag
Antarctica is a continent located in the south of planet Earth. In fact, Antarctica is not a state and has never had the status of an independent power, monetary unit, language of communication, but in 2002, the Antarctic Treaty Association, the continent was assigned an unofficial flag.
The development of the flag of Antarctica, at the personal initiative of scientists-vexiolologists (people who study the history of the origin of flags – a subsection of science). The development turned out to be so successful that they decided to give up the authorship altogether – there is no copyright or right holder for their design.
The flag was based on the main distinguishing feature of Antarctica – the common belonging and neutrality to any state. Legislatively, based on the decision of the United Nations, Antarctica cannot be recognized as part of anyone’s state territory. The flag is made in the likeness of the UN organization’s flag, – has a similar symbolism.
The main symbolism of the flag is neutrality, in relation to countries to Antarctica and in relation of Antarctica to other states.
The first time the flag was hoisted over the continent by the editor of the popular magazine “The Ravan” – Ted Kaye in 2002. At the same time, scientific bases, which are present on the continent, also raised the flag in solidarity.
Flag description
The flag looks like a white outline of the continent on the background of the symbol of equality – the color blue. There are no formal and legally approved criteria, proportions or descriptions, due to its unofficial nature.
What do the colors of the flag mean?
- White – Indicates the contour of the continent. There is no exact meaning. Probably the author of the flag wanted to convey the coldness of the continent, to cause association with the white snow, which is present year-round in Antarctica (on the continent the temperature does not rise above 0 on thermometers).
- Blue is a symbol of neutrality, equality and mutual respect. This color is associated with the sky, which is one for all, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, language or other affiliations.
Other versions of the flag of Antarctica
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Flag of the Antarctic Treaty -
Flag of Antarctica – Sketch by Whitney Smith
General information about Antarctica
| Official language | no |
| Capital | The informal capital is McMurdo Station |
| Territory | 14,107,000 km2 |
| Population | 1,000-4,000 people (polar station personnel) |
| Currency | no |
| Phone Code | +672 |
