Flag of Bahamas

Bahamas Flag

Country Information

Sovereign StateYes
Country CodesBS, BHS, 044
Official NameCommonwealth of The Bahamas
ContinentNorth America
CapitalNassau
Government TypeParliamentary democracy (under constitutional monarchy)
CurrencyBahamian dollar (BSD)
Calling Code+1 242
Member OfUnited Nations, Commonwealth of Nations, CARICOM
PopulationApprox. 400,000 (as of 2023)
Total Area13,878 square kilometers
Highest PointMount Alvernia on Cat Island (63 meters or 207 feet)
Lowest PointAtlantic Ocean (0 meters or 0 feet)
GDP Per CapitaApprox. $34,000 (as of 2023)
Life ExpectancyApprox. 73 years (as of 2023)
Internet TLD.bs

Bahamian National Anthem

March On, Bahamaland

Lift up your head to the rising sun, Bahamaland
March on to glory, your bright banners waving high
See how the world marks the manner of your bearing
Pledge to excel through love and unity
Pressing onward, march together to a common loftier goal
Steady sunward, tho’ the weather hide the wide and treacherous shoal
Lift up your head to the rising sun, Bahamaland
Till the road you’ve trod leads unto your God, March On, Bahamaland

Flags of Neighboring Countries

History of the Bahamian Flag

The flag of The Bahamas, officially adopted on July 10, 1973, symbolizes the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. This was the same day The Bahamas became independent from the United Kingdom, and the flag reflects the nation’s journey towards sovereignty.

The design of the Bahamian flag is distinctive and meaningful. It features three horizontal stripes of aquamarine, gold, and aquamarine, with a black equilateral triangle on the hoist side. The aquamarine stripes symbolize the crystal-clear waters and the skies of The Bahamas, while the gold stripe represents the sandy beaches and the natural riches of the islands. The black triangle signifies the strength, vigor, and force of the Bahamian people, and their determination to develop the land’s rich resources through unity.

Before independence, The Bahamas used the British Blue Ensign with the Bahamian coat of arms. The move to adopt a new flag was part of the wider process of establishing a national identity distinct from colonial rule. The design of the current flag was the result of a national competition, reflecting the desire to encapsulate the spirit of the nation and its people.

Today, the Bahamian flag is a symbol of national pride and unity. It is flown across the islands, representing the nation’s history, its natural beauty, and the aspirations of its people. The flag is a reminder of the Bahamian struggle for independence and a symbol of the country’s sovereignty and unique identity in the Caribbean.