The Algerian Flag: Green and White with Crescent and Star

The flag of Algeria, with its distinctive green and white halves adorned with a red crescent and star, is a powerful symbol of the country's struggle for independence, its Islamic heritage, and its national identity.

History

The Algerian flag has its roots in the country's fight for independence:

• The current design was adopted on July 3, 1962, upon Algeria's independence from France.
• It was originally designed in 1954 by Emilie Busquant, wife of freedom fighter Messali Hadj.
• The flag was used by the National Liberation Front (FLN) during the Algerian War of Independence (1954-1962).

Design and Symbolism

The Algerian flag consists of two equal vertical bars with a red crescent and star centered on the dividing line:

• The green half represents Islam, the predominant religion of Algeria.
• The white half symbolizes purity and peace.
• The red crescent and star represent Islam and are also associated with the Ottoman Empire, which ruled Algeria for centuries.

Cultural Significance

The flag holds deep cultural and emotional significance for Algerians:

• It's prominently displayed during national holidays, particularly Independence Day on July 5.
• The flag is a source of national pride and a reminder of the country's hard-won independence.
• It's often seen at sporting events, especially during international football matches.

Interesting Facts

• The exact shades of the colors are specified in the Algerian constitution.
• The flag's design is protected by law, with strict regulations governing its use and display.
• During the French colonial period, displaying the Algerian flag was considered an act of rebellion.

The Algerian flag continues to be a powerful symbol of national identity, representing the country's struggle for independence, its Islamic heritage, and its aspirations for the future.

References

1. Wikipedia - Flag of Algeria
2. Official Journal of the Algerian Republic (in French)