write a descriptive essay about the south african flag

• Games & Quizzes
• History & Society
• Science & Tech
• Biographies
• Animals & Nature
• Geography & Travel
• Arts & Culture
• On This Day
• One Good Fact
• New Articles
• Lifestyles & Social Issues
• Philosophy & Religion
• Politics, Law & Government
• World History
• Health & Medicine
• Browse Biographies
• Birds, Reptiles & Other Vertebrates
• Bugs, Mollusks & Other Invertebrates
• Environment
• Fossils & Geologic Time
• Entertainment & Pop Culture
• Sports & Recreation
• Visual Arts
• Demystified
• Image Galleries
• Infographics
• Top Questions
• Britannica Kids
• Saving Earth
• Space Next 50
• Student Center

flag of South Africa

Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.

• MapsofIndia.com - Flag of South Africa
• South African Government - National flag
• CRW Flags - Flag of South Africa

The two major European populations in South Africa , the Dutch (now Afrikaners ) and the English, brought flags whose use persisted until 1994. The orange-white-blue tricolour of the 17th-century Netherlands was the basis for the national flag officially hoisted on May 31, 1928, by the Union of South Africa. The British Union Jack and the flags of the Transvaal and Orange Free State were added to the centre of that flag. Absent was any symbol for the overwhelming majority of the population, black Africans, or for the country’s Coloured (mixed-race) and Indian inhabitants.

The end of the apartheid era was marked by the universal-suffrage democratic elections of April 1994, which resulted in a strong victory for supporters of the African National Congress (ANC). Many whites had feared that the black-green-yellow horizontal tricolour of the ANC, representing black Africans, the land, and mineral wealth, would be made the national flag. Instead, the new flag hoisted on April 27 was a compromise in design and colours intended to represent and reassure all segments of the population. Designed by state herald Frederick Brownell, it has as its principal symbol a Y-shape symbolizing the “converging of paths…merging history and present political realities” into a common determination to create a united and prosperous future.

The new flag is unique in combining six colours; traditional flags had two or three colours, and some modern flags four or five colours. The flag colours could be related to various groups—red-white-blue for English people and Afrikaners, green for Muslims, black-green-yellow for ANC supporters, red-white-black-green-yellow for Zulus , and so on. Intentionally, however, and in contrast to most other modern national flags, the new design for South Africa explicitly avoids any specific symbolic association for the colours, as this was considered “treading on dangerous ground.” The flag, intended as temporary, was confirmed by the 1996 constitution as permanent, based on the overwhelming popular support it had gained and on the optimistic spirit of South Africans regarding their national future.

The South African Flag – History, Meaning, Colour & Designer

The South African flag is one of the National symbols that makes the country unique in its own way.  A national flag is used to represent a country without having to use its name. The flag of South Africa is flown at the front of all government buildings. Individuals and private organizations like banks have also taken the liberty of flying the national symbol.

Brief History of South African Flag

The flag of South Africa was designed by the then State Herald of South Africa Frederick Brownell in March 1994 and was adopted on 27 April 1994, at the beginning of South Africa’s 1994 general election. This was done to replace the flag that had been used since 1928. The present South African national flag was first flown on 27 April 1994, which was the day of South Africa’s 1994 election. Choosing a new flag was part of the negotiation process that was set in place when Nelson Mandela was in 1990 released from prison.

Who Designed South African Flag – Frederick Brownell

For those of us who do not know and have been researching about this, the South African Flag was designed by Frederick Brownell who was the then State Herald of South Africa. It was designed in March 1994. Frederick matriculated from St. Andrew’s School in Bloemfontein in 1957 and was 54 years of age when he designed the flag. He has designed many coats of arms, badges and flags, including the arms and the flag of Namibia in 1990.  Brownell was awarded the Order for Meritorious Service by President Nelson Mandela in 1999 for his role in designing the South African flag.

Related Also!!!

• South African National Symbols and Their Meaning
• South African History Today - March 15
• South African History Today - March 13
• Provinces and Capital in South Africa
• South African History Today - April 14
• South African History Today - February 25

Colours of Flag of South Africa

The South African flag has six colours: Green, Black, White, Gold, Blue and Red. Green represents natural wealth, while white represents peace. The design and colours of the South African flag are a synopsis of principal elements of the country’s flag history. The colours actually do not have any essential meaning.

Black, Green and Gold yellow are found in the flag of the African National Congress. Red, White and Blue are used in the modern flag of the Netherlands and the flag of the United Kingdom; the colours white and blue were also found in the old flag of South Africa.

Description of Flag of South Africa

• The national flag is rectangular; it is one and a half times as long as it is wide.
• It is black, gold, green, white, chilli red and blue.
• It has a green Y-shaped band that is one fifth as wide as the flag. The centre lines of the band start in the top and bottom corners next to the flag post, converge in the centre of the flag and continue horizontally to the middle of the free edge.
• The green band is edged, above and below in white, and towards the flag post end, in gold. Each edging is one-fifteenth as wide as the flag.
• The triangle next to the flag post is black.
• The upper horizontal band is chilli red and the lower horizontal band is blue. These bands are each one third as wide as the flag.

Related Posts

South africa facts, geography & population.

Bloemfontein City Hall – Address, History & Contact

South African History Today – March 21

Leave a reply cancel reply.

The History and Meaning of the South African Flag

Jul 23, 2020 | History and Politics

The South African flag is bright, bold and certainly stands out. One of the most colourful flags in the world, the South African flag uses large shapes and vivid colours to share the story of the country: a story of freedom, unity and ubuntu.

Read on to find out more about the history and meaning of the South African flag.

The History of the South African Flag

The end of the Apartheid era marked a new beginning for South Africa.

Choosing a new national flag was part of the negotiation process set in motion when freedom fighter Nelson Mandela was released from prison in 1990. The proclamation of the new flag would reflect the dawn of a new democratic era in South Africa.

In 1993, a nationwide competition was held by The National Symbols Commission where members of the public were asked to submit ideas for the new national flag. Over 7000 designs were entered but none of the submissions elicited much enthusiasm from the Negotiating Council.

Authorities went on to contract design studios to submit further blueprints but were unsuccessful, and as a result, parliament went into recess at the end of 1993 without a suitable design for the new national flag.

In February of 1994, Cyril Ramaphosa, chief negotiator for the African National Congress, together with Roelf Meyer of the National Party government were elected to resolve the task of choosing a flag that would accurately represent the new South Africa. Finally, it was former State Herald Fred Brownell’s design that was approved and officially adopted on the 15th of March 1994.

The proclamation of the new flag was on the 20th April 1994, days before the flag was to be inaugurated on the 27th of April – an auspicious now known as National Freedom Day. The new South African national flag first flew on the 10th of May 1994 – the day that Nelson Mandela became president of South Africa, two weeks after the country’s first democratic elections.

The Design of the South African Flag

The principle design symbol of the national flag is the “Y” shape . This shape represents the convergence of the many diverse elements within the South African society , and the merging of histories and political realities into a common path to create a united future.

A symbol of unity and progress, the South African National flag is the only six-coloured national flag in the world. The design and colours are intended to represent all of the diverse segments of the population by uniting them as one .

While there are many interpretations of the colour symbology of the South African flag, there is no official documentation of the colour codes recorded. Individual colours have different meanings for different people, so the South African flag is able to be kept free of universal symbolism.

Instead, the design of the national flag should be appreciated for its diverse representation of the South African society, honouring the various ethnic groups continuing forward into a new and united South Africa.

Join our newsletter!

Sign up for travel tips and news from Africa delivered straight to your inbox! We won't send you spam or boring emails, we promise!

Thank you! Please check your inbox for a confirmation mail.

By joining our list, you agree to the terms of our privacy policy .

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Latest Posts

• Africa’s Big Five and Where You Can View Them March 7, 2024
• The 5 Most Endangered Animals in Africa | Rare African Animals February 6, 2024
• What to Wear on Safari in Southern Africa Packing Guide & Tips January 16, 2024
• The Top 10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Cape Town November 20, 2023
• Top 10 Activities You Can Do on a Beach and Island Vacation in Southern Africa November 12, 2023

Pin It on Pinterest

South Africa’s New Flag

A public competition was held for the design of the new National flag. Seven thousand designs were received, and several were presented – but none were chosen.

With the country’s first democratic elections approaching, 74-year-old Fred Brownell was asked to design a new national flag – quickly! He had one week to do it. (Luckily, Brownell had been sketching ideas for years.)

South Africa’s new flag was first hoisted during the elections – on April 27, 1994.

Its first official appearance was at the presidential inauguration on May 10, 1994. It became the official symbol of the new democracy and was adopted into South Africa’s new constitution in 1996.

Flag Symbolism

The design of South Africa’s new flag represented the unification of the diverse nation into one democratic state. The “Y” illustrates the convergence and the path ahead.

At the time, it was the only national flag in the world to contain six colors as part of its design.

While officially there is no symbolism to the colors, some thoughts are that the red/orange, white, and blue come from the British and Dutch colonial flags, and the black, gold, and green are from the colors found in the flags of liberation groups, including Nelson Mandela’s ANC (African National Congress) party.

Other theories include…

• the black isosceles triangle: the determination of the black race
• blue: the Atlantic and Indian Oceans or the wide sky overhead; truth, loyalty
• red: the bloodshed during the wars; bravery; strength
• green: fertility of the land; love, hope, and joy for the land
• yellow: the mineral wealth that is below the soil; gold
• white: the white population; honesty; peace

The South African flag is to be displayed horizontally with the black triangle to the left and the red band on the top or  vertically (rotated 90 degrees and reversed) with the black triangle at the top and the red band to the left. The flag is to be hoisted briskly and lowered ceremoniously.

People are expected to stand at attention when it is being hoisted and lowered, with their hats off and their right hand over their heart in a salute.

The flag should never touch the ground, never be used to drape over things, and never be used to start or finish a competition or a race.

Flag Nickname

South Africa’s flag doesn’t have a nickname, but suggestions from the public included: Unity Flag, Southern Crane, Southern Union, Oranje Union, Rainbow Salad, Ama Flappa Flappa, Madiba or Madiba’s Rainbow ( Madiba is Nelson Mandela’s clan name), the Mandela Flag, and Nelson.

Most people refer to it as the “Rainbow” flag.

Which do you like? Can you think of another nickname for the South African flag? Does your country’s flag have a nickname?

In addition to the new flag, South Africa created a new national anthem – merging the old official and unofficial anthems.

The lyrics include the five most widely spoken of South Africa’s 11 official languages – Xhosa, Zulu, Sesotho, Afrikaans, and English.

Flag Puzzle Activity

Download the  Flag Puzzles . (Black/white and color versions are included.)

• Cut the puzzle pieces on the dotted lines and assemble them.
• Glue on a sheet of paper.
• Color the black and white flag.
• Make your puzzle: Cut out one of the flags. Fold it several times. Unfold it and cut along the fold creases. Reassemble. (The number of times you fold it will depend on the child’s age/ability with puzzles).
• Attach the flag to a straw or a stick.

Go Further!

Engage young explorers in a variety of activities to learn about the geography and culture of South Africa. The final product makes a wonderful artifact to share and keep.

Welcome to our Olympics for Kids series ! The Olympics are a wonderful opportunity to teach kids about the world and explore cultures together. Today, you can find more geography and flag posts about various countries thanks to our participating bloggers:

All about Chile, Multicultural Kid Blogs; France, Places Where the Olympics Took Place – La Cité des Vents; Brazilian Flag Infographic – The Piri-Piri Lexicon; Flying the Dutch Flag, Expat Life with a Double Buggy

Don’t forget that you can also download our Summer Games Unit activity pack to learn more about the world and have fun during the Olympics.

• Travel Website
• Travel trade website
• Business events website
• Corporate & media website
• Welcome to South Africa
• What you need to know
• Things to do
• Places to go
• Get in touch

Choose your country and language:

• South Africa

Asia Pacific

• South Korea
• Netherlands
• United Kingdom

By creating an account, I agree to the Terms of service and Privacy policy

Vibrant culture

An enduring symbol of unity and overcoming adversity as a nation.

T T alk of a new South African flag design first emerged with the release of Nelson Mandela in 1990. It came at a time when the country needed change, a binding symbol of hope and freedom and a true rainbow nation indicator.

It started in 1993 already, when a national competition invited the public to submit flag designs, the pressure was on to create what would become the most visible symbol of the fledgeling democracy.

The new flag design was considered a vital process which happened rather quickly when a committee was tasked to come up with the perfect design with little time to spare. Led by former State Herald, Fred Brownell, the team was given one week to come up with an appropriate design.

Brownell had reportedly made a few sketches the year before, while at a vexillological (flag expert) conference in Switzerland. One of these was selected by both sides of the transitional government as the preferred design. It was even sent to Nelson Mandela who was in Rustenburg at the time, to approve it by fax. This would be considered the most important approval of all.

The current South African flag was only destined to be the country’s interim flag to coincide with the interim government, but was eventually assimilated as one of the official symbols of the new democracy.

The South African national flag was first hoisted on 27 April 1994 when the country held its first free elections. Today, this is known as Freedom Day, and is celebrated as a public holiday on which the flag is traditionally flown.

Officially, the South African flag colours do not hold any symbolism, although they have unmistakable historical origins. Black, yellow and green are the colours of ruling ANC party. Red, white and blue are a nod to both the flags of the European colonists as well as the old Boer republics.  The  V or Y shape, which can be interpreted as "the convergence of diverse elements within  South African  society, taking the road ahead in unity". It can also be said that the colours do hold the following unofficial meanings: 

Red symbolizes bloodshed and sacrifices made in South Africa's struggle for independence

White stands for Europeans and peace and harmony between native people and Europeans

Green represents fertility of the South African land

Yellow stands for the mineral and other natural wealth of South Africa

Black represents the native people of South Africa

Blue stands for blue sky and endless opportunities for South Africans

The meaning of the South African flag design can be traced to the motto on the National Coat of Arms, which reads: “!ke e:/xarra //ke”, which is the Khoisan language of the /Xam people, meaning “diverse people unite”.

The “Y” represents a convergence of diversity, which can be interpreted as the convergence of diverse elements within South African society taking the road ahead in unity. South Africans are proud of their colourful and symbolic flag which is easily recognised at any given international event.

Related articles

Craft beer and gin movement in south africa - must-visit places for beverages, toasting the wonderful journey of south africa’s wine tourism, up close and personal; july 2022, marina appelbaum: nikos and old ducky french cafe, mpho molema: the workshop ko kasi, northern cape, khosi tyobeka, zimase travel, south africa’s eastern cape, nelson mandela’s home province, celebrate nelson mandela’s birthday by exploring south africa’s historical attractions and sites, south africa on social media.

The BMW International Open has made us excited for the BMW Golf Cup World Final to be hosted in SA. We caught up wi… https://t.co/XiU3waBo1T

Always a pleasure partnering with local businesses to promote SA on the global stage. Warren Weitsz, Co-Founder of… https://t.co/YRxoX6Jdtx

To say the players are bringing their A-game is an under statement! Round 2 has given us many unforgettable moments… https://t.co/4bBdAuXMUL

"...Patrons have been keen and interested in engaging on where the best fairways in SA are. Paired with some of our… https://t.co/tIoXM2uUrh

Our stand at the BMW International Open has been drawing a lot of attention – and rightfully so! “We are proud and… https://t.co/ulYSTje4CB

Clear skies, rolling greens, supportive crowds – the conditions couldn’t be better for a day at Golfclub München Ei… https://t.co/3TMmUxsN0m

What happens when an amateur and pro hit the fairway together? Find out in the Pro-Am Tournament, where 3 amateurs… https://t.co/hkvHUw0H0E

Ready to get into the swing of things? The Pro-Am Tournament of the 2023 BMW International Open starts today in Mün… https://t.co/WqLU7FshdH

South Africa has many exquisite golf courses. As we gear up for The BMW International Open in Germany, we hope to s… https://t.co/vTFwgOa78W

South African Tourism will be showcasing our beautiful country's offerings in Germany! We have so much to offer glo… https://t.co/O1m4yVy491

#DidYouKnow South Africa has produced some of the top golfers in the world. As we gear up for the BMW International… https://t.co/E1GsW6z1Fy

#DidYouKnow ? #VisitSouthAfrica ❤️🇿🇦 https://t.co/Y4zWjb8xIz

RT @Roberto_EUBXL: Amazing #YouthDay2023 long weekend in @MidlandsMeander ! Another 💎 of multifaceted #SouthAfrica : touches of 🇬🇧 🇧🇪 🇱🇺 co…

What does golf, South Africa, BMW and Germany have in common? The 34th staging of the BMW International Open in Ger… https://t.co/YdvuWOjs8O

Golf was first played in South Africa in 1885, in Cape Town. Now we are taking our love of golf to the world, as we… https://t.co/dXc5uIyGxI

RT @PublicSectorMan: Today marks 47 years since the youth uprising of 16 June 1976. Deputy President Paul Mashatile will lead the commemor…

We look forward to showcasing South Africa’s abundant tourism offerings to a global audience while reminding them a… https://t.co/yVz97hDGaa

A dynamic collaboration between SA Tourism and the iconic BMW Group is set to supercharge the country’s efforts tow… https://t.co/JhLDwHlLix

50 days until the kick-off – or shall we say the tip-off – of the Vitality #NWC2023 in SA! Excitement levels are at… https://t.co/Ni2fHwh2NJ

#VisitSouthAfrica ❤️🇿🇦 https://t.co/ApcA6wNNop

• Useful links
• Travel partners
• Business events
• Travel trade
• Accommodation
• Useful contacts
• Visa & entry info
• Digital Assets Library
• Image Library

Universities

Search Edarabia

• United Kingdom
• United States
• Saudi Arabia
• MBA Rankings
• More Countries
• Special Education Schools
• After School Activities
• Educational Suppliers
• Language Schools
• Music & Performing Arts
• Training Centers
• Education News
• Recruitment Agencies
• Student Scholarships
• Login / Register

Flag of South Africa - Colours, Meaning, History 🇿🇦

South Africa is a country rich in diversity and history. The state has a complex mix of ethnicities, cultures, and languages. This diversity is reflected in the country’s flag, which consists of six colours; black, yellow, white, green, blue, and red. The national flag embodies the rainbow characteristics of the country with its diverse ethnicities. It is also a symbol of a long struggle for freedom in a country that was once in the shackles of apartheid.

Table of Contents

History of the flag of south africa.

• What is the meaning behind the colours of the South African Flag

Interesting Facts about the Flag of South Africa

The design of the South African flag originated from a former South African State Herald known as Fred Brownell. The flag was hoisted for the first time on April 27, 1994. The decision to adopt Brownell’s flag did not come easily. In 1993, a public competition was held in a bid to find a new design for the new nation. The National Symbols Commission received more than 7000 entries. Out of the 7000, only six designs were presented to the negotiating council and the public. However, none of the designs were satisfactory. The committee reached out to some design councils for ideas for the new flag. Still, no design was selected. It was on March 15th, 1994, that the Transitional Executive Council accepted Brownell’s design.

Before 1994, the flag that was used was based on the flag of the Dutch Prince William of Orange-Nassau (William of Orange). The flag consisted of three primary colors: orange, white, and blue. The colours appeared in three horizontal bands with orange at the top, white in the middle, and blue at the bottom. In the middle of the white stripe were three small flags connected. The three flags were the flag of the Orange Free State, the UK red ensign flag, and at the center was the flag of the South African Republic. The country at the time was torn, with different territories taking on different flags. In 1928, there was the red ensign flag with the flag of Britain at the top left corner. The flag at the time consisted of the UK’s Union Jack at the bottom right corner of the red ensign. Although the country became a republic in 1961, black segregation was still strife. The Afrikaner majority despised the red ensign flag with the UK symbol. It was only after 1971 that the UK flag was replaced with the flag of the Dutch.

The flag of South Africa was designed in a bid to unify the flag under one banner. This flag was formed as part of the negotiation process that began when Nelson Mandela was released from prison in 1990. Three of the flag’s colors were derived from the flag of the Boer republic. These colours include red, white, and blue. However, in the Boer flag, instead of red, the color was orange. The yellow, black, and green are found in the flag of the African National Congress (ANC). There was a unanimous agreement that the flag should hold no official symbolism due to the country’s diverse cultures and turbulent past. However, according to the designer of the flag, the red symbolizes the bloodshed in the country’s various wars and conflicts. The post-1994 flag that is still in use evokes much emotion. To some, the flag is a symbol of the rainbow nation, a nation with a rich, diversified culture. However, to others, the flag is a symbol of white supremacy and apartheid.

What is the meaning behind the colours of the South African Flag?

The flag of South Africa constitutes six colors: The red, white and blue from the Boer republic and the British flag. The green, black, and gold colors from the ANC. Although there is no official statement concerning the meaning of the colors, here are some interpretations:

• Green is considered to symbolize the fertility of the land
• Black symbolizes the African community
• Gold represents the mineral wealth of the country
• Blue represents the endless possibilities for South Africans

The flag contains a horizontal bicolor of red and blue, with a black triangle appearing at the hoist area. The red and blue band form a ‘Y’ shape that is colored green. The white stripes that form the ‘Y’ symbolize the union between African and European cultures. This white color is also a symbol of peace.

The other explanation for the flag’s colors is that the colors are symbols of the country’s past. The colors red, green, and black are common in African flags. On the other hand, European flags tend to have blue, white, and red. Therefore, the flag is a symbol of the union of African and European cultures. Red, yellow, and green are also Pan-African colors. Pan-Africanism is a movement that fought for the liberation of Africa from white dominance. Pan-Africanism is founded on the ideals that Africans should be united based on common interests. To some, the colors are a symbol of the country’s two dominant political parties: The ANC (African National Congress) and the Democratic Alliance (DA); although it is important to note that the Democratic Alliance did not exist in 1994 when the flag was being formed.

According to government sources, the flag embodies basic concepts in the nation’s history. The only symbolism recognized by law is the ‘V’ or ‘Y’ shape. This shape symbolizes the convergence of diverse elements of the country and the journey ahead towards unity.

The flag of South Africa consists of the standard specification of the 2:3 ratio. The construction of the flag requires that the length of the pall is 1/5th that of the height. The width of the pall including the fimbriations is 1/3rd that of the flag’s length. The horizontal white stripes are 1/15th the height in their thickness. The colors are “chili” red, golden (not yellow), white, black, and blue (Reflex Blue) and spectrum green.

• At the time of its construction, the flag of South Africa was the only flag in the world with six colors.
• The flag was meant to serve as an interim flag for five years. However, since 1994, there has been no mention of a new flag. Also, the flag is recognized within the constitution (Act 108 of 1996).
• South Africans are expected to adhere to the flag’s etiquette. This includes not letting the flag touch the ground. Also, the flag should not be used as a tablecloth or as a covering on any platform.
• When the flag is raised with other national flags, it should be hoisted first and lowered last.
• The flag must be hoisted in tournaments, from the beginning to the end.
• The colors of the flag do not have any official symbolism. According to Frederick Brownell, when a flag does not have official symbolism it does not represent a synopsis of the country’s history. This allows all the people from diverse ethnicities to identify with the flag and form meaning. The design, on the other hand, symbolizes a converging path. This is a merger of both the past and the present.
• The flag was approved by the president at the time, Nelson Mandela .
• The meaning of the flag can be traced from the motto on South Africa’s National Coat of Arms, ‘! ke e:/xarra //ke’, which means, ‘Diverse people unite’.
• The black, gold, and green are common colors in liberation movements, particularly, the Pan-African Congress (PAC) and the ANC.
• The flag should always be accorded with dignity and respect. Information concerning the use of the flag can be obtained from the Government Gazette 22356, Notice 510 of June 8, 2001.

Do you know any other interesting facts about the flag of South Africa? Share your thoughts below.

Related Articles

How to Buy a Property in Dubai - 19 Tips (...

How to Check Qatar Traffic Violations & Pe...

Visas for UAE Expats Traveling to GCC Coun...

Shahada: Declaration of Faith in Islam (Fi...

How to Pay Parking by SMS in Abu Dhabi (Ma...

How to Get Police Clearance Certificate in...

Names of 25 Prophets Mentioned in Holy Quran

300 Islamic Baby Girl Names - Muslim & Ara...

Add a comment, cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Please do not post:

• Aggressive or discriminatory language
• Profanities (of any kind)
• Trade secrets or confidential information

Thank you once again for doing your part to keep Edarabia the most trusted education source.

Trending Articles

Trending Videos

PRAYER CALCULATION SETTINGS

Calculation Method:

Juristic settings:

• Society and Politics
• Art and Culture
• Biographies
• Publications

The introduction of new South African flag 1994

South Africa History Online. South African National Symbols and Heritage . [online] Available at  www.sahistory.org.za [Accessed 21 October 2013]|BBC News Magazine., 2014. Fred Brownell: The man who made South Africa's flag . [online] Available at  www.bbc.com [Accessed 14 April 2014]

Know something about this topic?

Towards a people's history

SOUTH AFRICAN FLAG

The national flag was designed by a former South African State Herald, Mr Fred Brownell, and was first used on 27 April 1994. The design and colours are a synopsis of principal elements of the country's flag history. Individual colours, or colour combinations represent different meanings for different people and therefore no universal symbolism should be attached to any of the colours.

The central design of the flag, beginning at the flagpost in a 'V' form and flowing into a single horizontal band to the outer edge of the fly, can be interpreted as the convergence of diverse elements within South African society, taking the road ahead in unity. The theme of convergence and unity ties in with the motto Unity is Strength of the previous South African Coat of Arms.

STAY CONNECTED

The Observation Post

South african military history.

The inconvenient and unknown history of South Africa’s national flags

Here’s another interesting back of the chappie gum wrapper fact – Guess which is the correct South African flag South Africans fought under during World War 1?  Bet most people will think of the old “Orange White and Blue” South African flag, but that would be wrong.

As a serving officer in the South African Army I had to be familiar with flag protocol and etiquette, it’s a key part of soldiering when national flags go on parade. However the funny thing in South Africa is just how poor our collective knowledge is of our own national flags.

Here is a classic case of the misunderstandings surrounding South African national flags – This is the painting the “Birth of the Union” James E McConnell.  The painting was so poorly researched he used the wrong flag.

This is a modern day photo-shop version of McConnell’s painting and it shows his original on the left and a more correct South African Union flag at union on the right.

The flag he used for his painting was the oranje-blanje-blou (known more commonly as the “OBB”) which all South Africans will recognise. However the flag of South Africa at the time of Union in 1910 was the South African “ensign flag” (British Union Jack top left and the South African National Coat of Arms inserted bottom right). Known as a “Red Duster” – now not too many South Africans today have ever seen that flag.

To show what the first South African national flag, the “Red Duster,” actually looked like here it is:

As noted, there was another variant of the “Red Duster” which is an ensign with the respective nation’s emblem against a Blue Background and a British Union flag in the left hand corner (you’ll still see this variant used in New Zealand and Australia for their National flag).

Both South Africa’s “Ensign” flags – Red and Blue qualify as the de facto South African national flags from 1910 to 1928, however the Red one was more common.

The Red Duster variant was the primary flag adopted by South Africa and Canada (Canada used their ensign version during WW1 and WW2 – it was only changed to the Maple Leaf in 1965)

The oranje-blanje-blou (“OBB”) was adopted by the South African Union Parliament as the “new” national flag in 1928. It was proudly flown as the flag of “Union” representing the old British Colonies of the Cape and Natal and the old Boer Republics of the Transvaal (South African Republic) and the Orange Free State. The use of the British Union flag inserted in the OBB, placed closest to the flag mast/pole (the most honoured and senior position for any “inserted” national flag on any flag format) ahead of the two Boer Republic flags, which take a lessor position, calmed down and appeased the “English” detractors who objected to such a dramatic flag change away from the standard Dominion Red Duster.

However, confusion as to South Africa’s national flag to use even reigned at this time.  Here Jan Smuts makes the front cover of a late 1940’s edition of “Time” magazine with the National Flag in the background and this time they are incorrectly using the “old” blue ensign flag and should have been using the”new” OBB.

So here’s another fun fact, the OBB is not the “Apartheid” flag, the National party when they came to power in 1948 put forward a proposal to have it amended and remove what they called the “Bloed Vlek” (Blood Stain) which was the British Union Flag inserted in the OBB. This was a National party pet hate as it reminded many Afrikaner nationalists of British decimation of Boer families and farms during the Boer war – the campaign to change the OBB flag was stepped up by the National Party under Hendrik Verwoerd when South Africa became a Republic and when he withdrew South Africa from the British Commonwealth of Nations in 1961.

However broader public pressure at the time prevented the initial National Party proposals for a flag change from been passed by the South African Republic’s Parliament and the idea was eventually shelved. In effect the initial campaign to change the OBB died with Verwoerd in 1966, but the National Party attempts to change the OBB to a “new” Republic flag did not stop there.  In 1968, the National Party Prime Minister, John Vorster, again proposed the adoption of a new flag to replace the OBB from 1971, the rational was to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the declaration of South Africa as a Republic.  Even though a National newspaper campaign was run asking the public for suggested flag designs, Vorster’s proposal did not get momentum in Parliament and the flag change never materialised.

Historically speaking, although the hardline National Party members hated the “OBB” and its inserted British “Union Jack”, but they disliked the original South African ensign “Red Duster” national flag with its massive “Union Jack” even more, they hated this flag so much it was literally erased from the South African collective consciousness and very few examples of it survive to this day. It certainly was not top of mind when McConnell painted his “Birth of the Union” painting in 1976.

That the flag of South African Union was kept during the implementation of Apartheid by the National Party from 1948 to 1994 is unfortunate as it detracts from it’s rich heritage as the flag of the South African “Union” and as such it is not the flag of the South African “Republic” nor was it ever intended to be a Republic’s flag – it especially detracts from all the kudos that South Africa received during World War 2 fighting alongside British and American forces under the South African Union’s OBB.

The “new” (new) South African flag adopted in 1994 was actually  intended as a “five year interim” flag, however, it proved so highly popular it became the national flag almost instantly and was officially adopted by the government of South Africa on the election day, 27th April 1994.

According to its designer Fred Bromnell – It is actually a combination of the two “Colonial era” flags – The national flag of the Netherlands (Dutch flag) – Red, White, Blue and the the British Union flag – Blue, White, Red.  Then the two former Boer Republic flags – the South African Republic (Transvaal) “Vier Kleur” – Green, Red, White and Blue and the Orange Free State Republic Flag (using the Dutch insert flag and the white) and then finally the African National Congress (ANC) Flag – Black, Green and Gold (colours also present in the Inkatha Freedom Party and Pan African Congress flags).

The V symbolises inclusion and unification. In essence it is another flag of “Union” (unity) only this time acknowledging the county’s Black population and its historical heritage.  Symbols considered in the design of the “new” flag included Catholic and Anglican Priest’s Classic Chasubles, the universal symbol of Peace and the married Zulu female traditional head-dress.

There are some claims that the “New” South African flag is just a “design” with no meaning or symbolism – but that’s not the opinion of the man who actually designed it – Frederick Gordon Brownell.  Also, I find that whenever that when this argument is used  it’s usually to deny meaning to the new South Africa flag and to degrade the country, describing it as “jockey Y front underpants,” when in fact the truth is the opposite and the flag is stuffed full of meaning and symbolism.

In fact the “New” South African flag reflects all the old flags of South Africa, these exist right there for all to see, plain as day to the trained eye (and even the untrained eye) – symbolically placed in the new flag – and that’s an inconvenient truth to both the “new” flag’s detractors and the detractors of the “old” OBB.

The funny thing is the “New” (new) flag was only meant to be an interim one, hence the mash of historical South African flags.  The irony kills me whenever I see the “new” South African youth and current South African political class with the flag they are now saluting, flying and even wearing – and it consists of their much despised “Colonial” Dutch, British and Boer Republic flags, and most of the “Apartheid” flag – irony lost on them but not on me.

Here’s the another irony – the “old” South African flag i.e. the “OBB” Union flag was born out of the ideals of Union led by Jan Smuts and Louis Botha. Not under the Apartheid ideals of  DF Malan and HF Verwoed. I personally see a lot of irony when hard-line right wing Afrikaners slam Jan Smuts and brand his values of consolidation and union with the British as an act of treason to the Afrikaner people – when at the same time they fully support, and at times even fly, the very flag created in honour of his very Unionist ideal – with its British “Blood Stain” symbolising Smuts’ reconciliation in full and proud senior position.

Furthermore it is ironic that after many years of trying to change the National flag after South Africa was declared a Republic in 1961, it was the National Party that finally achieved its goal in February 1994 when they, as the National Party government, briefed Frederick Gordon Brownell at the government’s own heraldry department to design a new flag (funnily in some sort of déjà vu – they had to involve the country’s National Herald this time after another newspaper campaign for designs from the public had failed, albeit 20 years later).  The result is the current flag we see today.  It was designed literally in a week and the only change in the decades long National Party narrative on changing the OBB this time was that both FW de Klerk and Nelson Mandela had to approve the new design.

So, lump it or leave it – there is nothing in “Union” flags that appeal to “all” people and everything in “Union” flags that appeal to “all” people.

All I can say is that the “new” South African flag has been the most cross cultural flag ever composed in South African history and it has been the least controversial i.e. it has been the most universally accepted by all South Africans (the very vast majority) with the least amount of disgruntled political posturing to change it.

In summary, to the “old” South Africa OBB supporters I would say:

•  The OBB was not the only South African national flag both Afrikaner and English South Africans fought under prior to 1994.
• The OBB pays a very high homage to The British Union National Flag in terms of the Vexillology of Flags and Flag Etiquette, especially in terms of the superior/senior position it takes relative to the two Boer Republic flags.
• The OBB symbolises the union of Afrikaner and English races – a central philosophy of Jan Christiaan Smuts and that of  “Union” Political Coalition partners and Governments.   Not those ideals of nationalist Afrikaners like Malan, Verwoed and Vorster, whose central political premise was that of an independent “Republic” and “Apartheid”.
• The OBB, although a flag of Union with the British, is now very dated.  Times and history changed since South Africa declared itself a Republic, so too the demographic and even social landscape of South Arica.  It cannot work as a current national flag in modern South Africa, change was inevitable – even Smuts would have seen that, and knowing his way of governance he would have welcomed a new flag to reflect it had he been around (in his time he served and lived under four different national flags).
• Many key Commonwealth countries have traded in their “Colonial” ensigns and Union flags – Canada, Jamaica, Kenya, Singapore, Hong Kong to name a few, and those still holding onto theirs – Australia and New Zealand, are under strong popular pressure to change them ahead of changing times.

To the “new” South Africa, current National flag supporters I say:

• The OBB is the flag of “Union” and it is one of the two Union flags used to bring   South Africa into existence as a country on the central principles of “reconciliation” and “tolerance” between two previously warring races (Boers and Brits), it is not the flag of “Apartheid”- in fact it was developed long before Apartheid was instituted as an ideology (in 1948) and symbolically it’s the complete opposite of Apartheid.
• Even the hard-line Apartheid Nationalists hated the old South African OBB, so much they wanted to change it – and eventually they did, and ironically it is the flag you now support, salute, fly and even wear – it was designed by a brief from the outgoing Apartheid Nationalist government in its final throws of office.
• The “new” flag very strongly and powerfully associates the flags of South Africa’s “Colonisers” and “Boers” in its design and in fact it celebrates this history – in addition to celebrating the history of the Black peoples of South Africa.
• The “new” South African flag does an excellent job balancing South Africa’s history and is very relevant to the current time.  I can’t possibly think of a better solution, and if the ANC and EFF one day decide to change it because of all its “colonial” and “white” legacy, I would hate to see what some Gupta owned design agency in India comes up with, because that really would round off a ‘state capture’.

This is why I allow myself a wry ironic smirk every-time South African flags are so hotly debated.

Researched and written by Peter Dickens.

Featured image by James E McConnell, Watercolour on Board 1973, photo-shopped version and background information courtesy Nicholas Pnematicatos.

Share this:

34 thoughts on “ the inconvenient and unknown history of south africa’s national flags ”.

Hi I have a copy of a page from The Eastern Province Herald dated 3 August 1927 where they published a full page headed “Are we going to Sacrifice The Jack” showing the flag they wanted. I have the original page. Where couldI send the image to.

Hi Brian, if you could e-mail it to me on [email protected] that would be fantastic, I’d love to see it.

Hi Brain, would you be so kind to let me have a copy please? You can mail it to me at [email protected] Kind Regards PK Smit

Hi Brain, I hope you see this message after all the time passed.

If so, I also would love to see the image of the flag they wanted. Would you be so kind to let me have a copy as well please?

My mail is [email protected]

Kind Regards

Greg Harker

Please publish the newspaper photograph here, as well as I am sure we are all interested!

Hi Greg I have attached a copy of the page. Where about are you located?

Hi Brian – please send to gmail – [email protected]

The new South African flag of the 1920s was by no means a consensus symbol. Natal in particular resented it as a rejection rather than dilution of the British connection. This controversy is well covered in H. Saker, The South African Flag Controversy 1925-1928 (Oxford University Press, 1980). It is also often overlooked that the old South African flag continued to be flown outside the UN Headquarters in New York right up to the transition in 1994. This was a matter of right, since, although South Africa had been suspended from the General Assembly, she continued to be formally a member of the the UN.

Pingback: Do you recognise this flag? | The Observation Post

Peter the OBB was to be officially used as the new flag at the Union celebrations on 31 May 1928.Parliament passed the Bill on 27 May 1928 in time for the celebrations. A South African official, from the Dept of Finance, attending a conference in Havana, Cuba pre-empted this and took with him an OBB. On the morning of the 28th May he presented the new flag to the staff hoisting the flags of all the countries represented and thereby used the OBB officially and representing the Union! Did you know this? The conference was on Free Trade in the world? Nogal!

I didn’t know that Pierre, thanks for the great input

The story of the South African Private Faulds VC, a stretcher bearer at the Battle of Delville Wood, is one of the great heroic stories of WW1. Well worth documenting!

Neil, I have published on him before. Have a look at this link

Delville Wood’s Victoria Cross – William Faulds

Great article, thank you. I see two versions of the “Red Duster”, one with the lower right emblem representing the four provinces and a second one showing the same emblem on a white circular background with the two opposing Springbok. i.e. There are 3 versions shown. ( I have one of the latter in a rather moth-eaten state) What is tjis flag? Thank you for a fasionating article.

Johann, the version with the national animals flanking the South African coat of arms was used on government buildings, the one pictured comes from the South African embassy in London and belongs to a friend of mine as part of a rare collection.

Thanks Peter, For years I have wondered exactly what this flag was.

This article was incredibly enlightening. THANK YOU!

Pingback: Banning the Old SA Flag – Yes or No? | 2 Sides 2 Everything

Peter, thanks for the article. Very informative. I was taught that the three smaller flags in die OBB were positioned in such a way as to give them all equal status. Although the Union Jack was closest to the pole (i.e. position of more status), it was reversed. You can see this by looking at the diagonal red lines on the flag. The Orange Free State flag is hung in a vertical position and the old Transvaal flag is furthest from the pole, i.e. each has a “strange” element to it that makes them all equal in status. If that makes sense. Leon

Having come from a family that served from the Boer Wars (on the Boer side), both World Wars (in the Union Defence Forces, Afrikaner and English speakers) to the SADF, the ignorance of historical fact leaves me astounded. A good and informative article.

Like Liked by 1 person

Hi Peter, Congradulations on a good and topical article.

Roelf Meyer told me that at the presentation of the flag for approval by Fred B, to him, Cyril R and the negotiation committee, one of the committee members commented that there was no Orange in the flag. Fred’s responded that there was!. The Red is not Crimson or Signal Red but Chili Red (aka Army Red). The official heraldic definition of Chili Red, is Red with a hint of Orange. – So there you have it.

I am given to understand that the Flag is still an interim flag because it has not been gazetted yet. Can anybody confirm this? Also the flag is the only flag worldwide with more than five colours, ie six colours. John Del Monte

Thoroughly enjoyed this article and the comments. However, the current South African flag also has 6 colours in it.

Pingback: VE – Day’s flags of honour | The Observation Post

Outstanding article, very well researched and presented!

What a wake up call always new the NATS wanted the Union Jack out the flag. That is why I cannot understand the hatred to it. Just a time in history.

Whilst your article is factual and informative, it is positioned to excuse the OBB from its role in apartheid. It’s true that it preceded apartheid however it is very clear that the purpose of the OBB was to unite white people. “The OBB symbolises the union of Afrikaner and English races ” Don’t forget that the Union of SA neatly coincided with the Native Lands Act, which was the precursor to full blown apartheid, whilst severely limited to no political franchise was the order of the day for people of colour. The OBB represented inequality and subjugation under white supremacy. You article, whilst very informative tries to explain that away.

Hi Craig, the purpose of the article was to explain the hidden symbology of the flags and misinterpretation – in no way do I try and explain away Apartheid, I’ve written countless articles on the Apartheid period and you’ll note I’ve exposed the National party for their underpinning Nazi philosophy countless times.

Hi Craig long time no see , 6SAI

I have certainly enjoyed reading this article, Mr Dickens.

Throughout the article, conspicuous in its absence, is the recognition of the rest of the people in South Africa’s indigenous and ethnic groupings.

Wheres the historic role that they played? Any significant fact or contribution from their side.

I notice huge emphasis on colors. Would it not have been appropriate to include and/or consider fauna and flora, or any unique, or combination of rare features around the country like Table Mountain (WCape), Gods Window (Mpumalanga), Big hole (Northern Cape), Hole in the wall, (Ecape), etc.?

Despite all our South African heritage’s unique features, beliefs, practices, etiquette, interpretation and the like, surely the one national symbol which operates as a beacon the world over should portray same.

It was not only Anglo / Boer activity that brought is through the 16 to 1900’s.

Recognized during ww1 n 2 or not, SA history should reflect all of it’s people.

Can we start writing about their contribution?

Hi John, I have written extensively on the contribution of ‘non white’ military personnel during WW1 and WW2 and the role they played under Union

The Red and Blue Ensigns could not have existed at the time of Union on 31st May 1910, as the arms of the Union of South Africa were not granted until 17th September 1910. The shield was then used on the Red Ensign until 1951 and on the Blue until 1946.

You are correct John, but I would hate to change Nick’s portrayal of the Red Duster at Union in the picture comparison with the original – and ask him to replace it with the Union Jack – which was the flag in use as at 31st May 1910, but I think the point on the first official flags of South Africa (and not the UK) being the ensigns with the South African coat of arms.

Really enjoyed this article Peter and learned a few more things about our flags (you have written about them before). You really do need to collate all this history into a book which will probably become the reference book for SA history.

The old OBB indeed stand for union brits and boers. But it also stand for a country with 85% non- white population whose colors presence on that flag simply denied. That is why it has been taken by coloreds as apartheid flag. Sorry for my English.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
• Subscribe Subscribed
• Copy shortlink
• Report this content
• View post in Reader
• Manage subscriptions
• Collapse this bar

The National Flag

The national flag was designed by a former South African State Herald, Mr Fred Brownell, and was first used on 27 April 1994. The design and colours are a synopsis of principal elements of the country's flag history. Individual colours, or colour combinations represent different meanings for different people and therefore no universal symbolism should be attached to any of the colours.

The central design of the flag, beginning at the flagpost in a 'V' form and flowing into a single horizontal band to the outer edge of the fly, can be interpreted as the convergence of diverse elements within South African society, taking the road ahead in unity. The theme of convergence and unity ties in with the motto  Unity is Strength  of the previous South African Coat of Arms.

Flying the flag

Specific instructions with regard to the use of the national flag can be found in the Government Gazette 22356, Notice 510 of 8 June 2001.

When the flag is hoisted on a flagpole, the red band must be the uppermost and the black triangle must be on the side of the pole or hoist.

When the flag is displayed vertically against a wall, the red band should be to the left of the viewer with the hoist or the cord seam at the top. When it is displayed horizontally, the hoist should be to the left of the viewer and the red band at the top. When the flag is displayed next to or behind the speaker at a meeting, it must be placed to the speaker's right. When it is placed elsewhere in the meeting place, it should be to the right of the audience.

Colour specifications

Textile colours.

Green - CKS 42 c Spectrum green Black - CKS 401 c Blue black White - CKS 701 c National flag white Gold - CKS 724 c Gold yellow Red - CKS 750 c Chilli red Blue - CKS 762 c National flag blue

Approximate Pantone equivalents

Green - 3415 c Gold 1235 c Red 179 c Blue reflex blue c

Featured Video

Luthuli Walk and Fun Run

National flag

The national flag was designed by a former South African State Herald, Mr Fred Brownell, and was first used on 27 April 1994. The design and colours are a synopsis of principal elements of the country's flag history. Individual colours, or colour combinations represent different meanings for different people and therefore no universal symbolism should be attached to any of the colours.

The central design of the flag, beginning at the flagpost in a 'V' form and flowing into a single horizontal band to the outer edge of the fly, can be interpreted as the convergence of diverse elements within South African society, taking the road ahead in unity. The theme of convergence and unity ties in with the motto Unity is Strength of the previous South African Coat of Arms.

Flying the flag

Specific instructions with regard to the use of the national flag can be found in the Government Gazette 22356, Notice 510 of 8 June 2001 [PDF].

When the flag is displayed vertically against a wall, the red band should be to the left of the viewer with the hoist or the cord seam at the top. When it is displayed horizontally, the hoist should be to the left of the viewer and the red band at the top. When the flag is displayed next to or behind the speaker at a meeting, it must be placed to the speaker's right. When it is placed elsewhere in the meeting place, it should be to the right of the audience.

Colour specifications

Textile colours.

Green - CKS 42 c Spectrum green Black - CKS 401 c Blue black White - CKS 701 c National flag white Gold - CKS 724 c Gold yellow Red - CKS 750 c Chilli red Blue - CKS 762 c National flag blue

Approximate Pantone equivalents

Green - 3415 c Gold 1235 c Red 179 c Blue reflex blue c

BROWNELL, FG, National Symbols of the Republic of South Africa. 1995. Johannesburg: Chris van Rensburg Publications.

Department of Foreign Affairs and Information. 1983. South Africa 1983: Official Yearbook of the Republic of South Africa. 9th ed. Johannesburg: Chris van Rensburg

Republic of South Africa. 1995. Government Gazette, no 1658 of 1995, Pretoria.

South African Communication Service. 1993. South Africa 1993: Official Yearbook of the Republic of South Africa. 19th ed. Pretoria: South African Communication Service.

Share this page

FLAG PROTOCOL

• PUBLICATIONS, NEWS & LINKS
• RSA FLAG FACTS
• FLAG SPEC SHEETS
• MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

South African flag guide

Treat your flag with respect, the flag must never:.

• Be allowed to touch the ground or floor.
• Be used as a table cloth, or draped in front of a platform.
• Be used to cover a statue, plaque corner stone etc. at unveiling or similar ceremonies.
• Be used to start or finish any competition, race or similar event.
• Be manufactured or used as underclothes, bath and floor mats or any similar demeaning application.
• Be used for any commercial advertising in a manner that will distort or show disrespect to the flag.

Traditional rules for handling the flag

• The flag should always be hoisted at the start of the working day and lowered again before or at sunset. It is not to remain flying at night unless suitably illuminated. In South Africa, this rule still applies to government-designated flag stations, while through common usage the flag can be displayed 24 hours a day outside of official stations.
• The flag should be hoisted briskly and lowered ceremoniously.
• Whenever a person sees an official flag hoisting or lowering ceremony in progress, he or she should come to a halt and stand respectfully to attention for the duration. If a hat is worn, it should be removed and the right hand should be placed over the heart in salute. Persons in uniform should salute in the manner prescribed by their service. (The same rules apply when the National Anthem is being played or sung.)
• The flag should never be depicted, displayed or flown upside down. Flying a flag upside down is the traditional sign of surrender! When displayed horizontally, the black triangle should be to your left and the red band uppermost.
• When draped vertically, a flag should not merely be rotated through 90 degrees, but also reversed. In the case of the South African flag, the black triangle must be uppermost and the red band to your left. (One "reads" a flag like the pages of a book - from top to bottom and from left to right - and after rotation the results should be the same.)
• It is also insulting to display the flag in a frayed or dirty state. The same rule applies to the flagpoles and halyards used to hoist the flag - they should always be in a proper state of maintenance.
• The flag may never be defaced by placing slogans or any writing or design directly on the field of the flag.

Correct display of the flag

• When two flags are fully spread out horizontally on a wall behind a podium, their hoists should be towards each other with the red stripes uppermost.
• When the flag is displayed on a short flag pole, this should be mounted at an angle to the wall with the flag draped tastefully from it.
• When two national flags are displayed on crossed staffs, the hoists must be towards each other and the flags must be fully spread out.
• The flag should never be used as a cloth to cover tables, lecterns or podiums, or be draped from railings.

In company with other national flags

• If on separate staffs, the National Flag should be in the middle, or the furthest left from the viewpoint of the onlookers, or at least one flag's breadth higher than the other flags in the group, or its flagpole must be in front of the other poles in the group.
• If on the same staff, it must be the uppermost flag.
• If carried in procession with other flags, it must be at the head of the marching procession.
• If carried with a row of flags in line abreast, it must be carried to the marching right of the procession.

Displaying the flag indoors

• Always be on the right (observers' left), as this is the position of authority. So when the flag is displayed next to a speaker in a hall or other meeting place, it must be placed on the speaker's right hand; when displayed elsewhere in the hall, it should be to the right of the audience.
• The flag should be displayed completely spread out with the red stripe on top. If hung vertically on the wall behind the podium, the red stripe should be to the left of the onlookers facing the flag with the hoist cord at the top.

Parades and ceremonies

Half masting.

• Essay Samples
• College Essay
• Writing Tools
• Writing guide

Creative samples from the experts

↑ Return to Essay Samples

Descriptive Essay: Why I Love South Africa

As an avid traveller, I’ve discovered several countries that got under my skin but the one I’ll always call home, where the heart is, is South Africa. I know that as a Saffa I’m being subjective but then again, I’ve seen the aspects that visitors to the country don’t usually see and I still love the place, warts and all. There is much to love about the land at the southern tip of Africa but for me its biggest strength is its diversity.

Having grown up under apartheid, I used to think that ‘diversity’ was only a good thing when it referred to the varied South African landscape. Of course the many worlds in one country is wonderful: You can drive only a couple of hours from Cape Town’s Mediterranean climate to the coastal forests of the Tsitsikamma or the arid, desolate Karoo; or from bustling Johannesburg to the tranquillity of the Drakensberg, the subtropical Lowveld or the wild Bushveld with its mopane and baobab trees.

However, the diversity that really gets my heart racing is that of the South African people. It used to be our curse but under the leadership of people like Nelson Mandela, it has come to be our blessing. Like so many of my countrymen, I had to learn to embrace difference but now I never want to live in a place where everyone looks the same, speaks the same language and holds the same beliefs. How, for instance, can I fear Islam when I’ve walked around a predominantly Muslim neighbourhood during Eid al Futr and felt the palpable sense of excitement and community in the air?

I once was in a train carriage where everyone, complete strangers, spontaneously started to dance to the music of a guitar-playing busker. I can’t imagine this happening in New York or London or Berlin. It made me realise how privileged I am to be part of the Rainbow Nation.

Of course there is a lot wrong with South Africa. The economic inequality makes me want to cry, as do the unacceptably high rates of crime and corruption. But then I look at where we were and how far we’ve come. A taxi driver in Nicaragua, upon hearing where I was from, said to me, ‘Oh, yes, you guys forgave one another.’ That’s been our salvation: That we can acknowledge the past but instead of being crippled by it, we can use it as a guide in making the world a better place for all.

I now try to live according to Ubuntu, the idea that ‘I am because you are’. I hope that this philosophy will come to be the greatest South African export. Meanwhile, I’ll keep carrying my beloved country in my heart and in my veins, no matter where I go.

Follow Us on Social Media

Get more free essays

Send via email

Most useful resources for students:.

• Free Essays Download
• Writing Tools List
• Proofreading Services
• Universities Rating

Contributors Bio

Find more useful services for students

Free plagiarism check, professional editing, online tutoring, free grammar check.

• Free Case Studies
• Business Essays

Write My Case Study

Buy Case Study

Case Study Help

• Case Study For Sale
• Case Study Services
• Hire Writer

Descriptive Essay: My Country South Africa

South Africa is a country situated on the most southern tip of Africa cradled by the icy Atlantic Ocean on the west and the warm Indian Ocean on the south and east. The southernmost tip jutting out into the ocean is called Cape Aghulhas (Cape of Needles) and separates these two great oceans. To the north are Mozambique, Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe.

South Africa encircles the independent kingdoms of Swaziland and Lesotho. Languages The 11 official languages are Afrikaans, English, Ndebele, Northern Sotho, Sotho, Swazi, Tswana, Tonga, Venda, Xhosa and Zulu. The three most spoken first languages are Zulu (22.7%), Xhosa (16%) and Afrikaans (13.5%).

We Will Write a Custom Case Study Specifically For You For Only $13.90/page!

English is the language of commerce and science and is the first language of 9.6% South Africans. There are also semi-official and unofficial languages.The unofficial languages of the Khoikhoi and San are in grave danger of extinction. They are the aboriginal peoples of South Africa and are physically distinct with an ancient culture founded on hunter-gatherer societies.

Layout The country is made up of nine provinces Western Cape, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, North West, Limpopo, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumulanga and Free State. The main cities are Durban (coastal Kwazulu-Natal), Johannesburg (inland Gauteng), Cape Town (coastal Western Cape) and Pretoria (inland northern Gauteng). Population and Size South Africa takes up four percent of Africa’s landmass i.e. 1 221 040 square kilometers making it three times bigger than Texas and five times bigger than Britain. This area is populated by about 52 million people.

History Our first peoples were the San and Khoikhoi established for thousands of years before the arrival of the Bantu-speaking tribes who were established hundreds of years before the Europeans. The Europeans were sent by the Dutch East India Company and arrived at the Cape in 1652 to build a fort and start a garden for ships on the eastern trading route. Eventually, this route also brought slaves to the Cape until slaves were freed in 1833.The Afrikaans speaking Boers, descended mainly from Europeans, trekked north and east to establish the Boer republics of Orange Free State and Transvaal. They did not want to be under British rule.

After diamonds were discovered in 1867, and gold in 1876, a war broke out between Boers and British. In 1902, the Boers were defeated and in 1910 South Africa became a Union of 2 British and 2 Boer colonies.The ANC was founded in 1912 but in 1936 black South Africans were expunged from the voter rolls. In 1950, more than 1 million black South Africans were forced from cities to rural areas and poverty.In 1961, South Africa became a republic under the white supremacist Nationalists and the country was gradually weakened by internal black opposition and international boycotts. In 1990, this led to de Klerk releasing Mandela from 27 years in prison.

In a 1992 referendum, white South Africans voted to support de Klerk’s negotiations and in 1994 the ANC won the first democratic election and Mandela became president on 10 May. Conclusion My country has experienced a tragic history but today, all South Africans strive equally for a better future and to maintain democratic values e.g. the country is united in preventing current President Zuma from restricting freedom of speech. Our biggest challenge is reducing poverty but this is possible due to tourism, mineral wealth and Johannesburg being the thriving power-house of business on the African continent.

References http://www.edusouthafrica.com/south-africa.htmlhttp://www.factmonster.com/ipka/A0107983.htmlhttp://www.factmonster.com/country/profiles/south-africa.htmlhttp://www.southafrica.info/about/history/521109.htm#.UzKlhqiSzxI

Related posts:

• Descriptive Essay: Why I Love South Africa
• Descriptive Essay: South Africa – The Rainbow Nation
• Descriptive Essay: My Beloved Country
• Descriptive Essay: I Am African
• Post-War Independence Notes India/ South Africa
• Areas of Africa and South America
• South korea country report

Quick Links

Privacy Policy

Terms and Conditions

Testimonials

Our Services

Case Study Writing Services

Case Studies For Sale

Our Company

Welcome to the world of case studies that can bring you high grades! Here, at ACaseStudy.com, we deliver professionally written papers, and the best grades for you from your professors are guaranteed!

[email protected] 804-506-0782 350 5th Ave, New York, NY 10118, USA

Acasestudy.com © 2007-2019 All rights reserved.

Hi! I'm Anna

Would you like to get a custom case study? How about receiving a customized one?

Haven't Found The Case Study You Want?

For Only $13.90/page