Flag of Myanmar - Definition and Overview

Current flag of Myanmar (adopted on Jan. 3rd, 1974). Flag ratio: 6:11

Historical flag of Burma (c.1948 to 1974). Flag ratio: 6:11

The flag of Myanmar was adopted on January 3, 1974 upon the declaration of a socialist republic in Burma by Ne Win. The new flag design is not radically different from the previous flag of Myanmar (then Burma) that had a red field with a blue canton in the upper corner on the hoist side. However, the imagery within the canton was changed, to a cog wheel with a bushel of rice superimposed upon it. These symbols are socialist and stand for the workers and farmers. Surrounding this are 14 five-pointed stars that represent the states of Myanmar. The white color stands for purity, the blue for peace and integrity, and the red for courage. It is similar to the Flag of the Republic of China (Taiwan).