Timeline: Canada’s National Flag

The Canadian Red Ensign, which includes the Union Jack and Canada’s coat of arms, is used unofficially as a national flag. It is recognized as one of the main flags of Canada along with the Union Jack until 1965.

The Canadian Red Ensign becomes official for use on Canadian ships, but also continues to be used on land as an unofficial national flag.

King George V grants Canada a new official coat of arms, which takes its place on the Canadian Red Ensign.

Parliament establishes a committee to design a new national flag for the Dominion of Canada, but the project is quickly shelved.

A second parliamentary committee is formed to consider a design for a new national flag, without result. Prime Minister Mackenzie King cancels the project. The Union Jack remains the national flag and the Canadian Red Ensign is flown government buildings.

The leaves on the shield of Canada’s coat of arms are changed from green to red, and the Canadian Red Ensign is modified.

After much debate in the House of Commons, Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson creates a new parliamentary committee to select a national flag before the 1967 Centennial year. In 1964, after reviewing many proposals, the committee selects the concept that would inspire the graphic design of Canada’s current National Flag.

Canada adopts its new National Flag, with its iconic and singular graphic design. A royal proclamation is signed by Queen Elizabeth II on January 28, and the new flag is raised on Parliament Hill on February 15.

Did You Know?

The National Flag of Canada is a distinctive symbol that has specific graphic design characteristics in terms of its dimensions, colours, and the shape of the central 11-point maple leaf. As an official state symbol it is protected by the Trademarks Act.

To commemorate the first raising of the National Flag, February 15 is officially declared National Flag of Canada Day.