The flag of Ontario is a beautiful and striking symbol that represents a great deal about the province. It features the provincial coat of arms, which is itself a richly symbolic image. In the center of the flag is a stylized red trillium, the official flower of Ontario, which represents the beauty and natural wonders of the province. Around the trillium are three green maple leaves, which are symbolic of the country of Canada.
Beyond the floral and national symbols, the coat of arms on the Ontario flag contains a variety of other symbolic elements. There is a stylized bear and moose holding up the coat of arms, which represent the strength and resilience of the Canadian people. The shield itself contains a gold cross, which is reminiscent of Ontario’s Christian heritage. The blue bars on either side of the shield represent the Great Lakes, which are vital to the province’s economy and natural resources.
When we look at the Ontario flag, we see a lot more than just a piece of fabric waving in the wind. We see a symbol of the province’s people, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a resident of Ontario or a visitor passing through, the flag is an emblem of the pride and strength that is inherent to this great region.
The flag’s origins
The Ontario flag, also known as the Red Ensign with the shield of Ontario in the fly, originated in 1965 as part of Canada’s centennial celebrations. The flag features the Union Jack in the canton and the Ontario coat of arms in the fly on a field of red. The coat of arms consists of three green maple leaves on a gold background, a red cross with smaller gold crosses in each quarter on a white background, and a gold mace and sword crossed behind a green bear above a banner that reads, “Ut incepit Fidelis sic permanet”, which means “Loyal she began, loyal she remains”.
Before 1965, Ontario didn’t have an official flag, although the province had used several unofficial flags, including one with the coat of arms of Ontario on a blue background and another with a green maple leaf in the center on a white field.
The design of the flag reflects Ontario’s history and heritage. The Union Jack represents the British heritage of the province, while the coat of arms reflects the natural resources and industries of Ontario. The green maple leaves symbolize the flora and fauna of the province, and the red cross with smaller gold crosses is the St. George’s Cross, representing Ontario’s connection to England.
Ontario’s Colonial History
Ontario’s colonial history dates back to the 1600s when French explorers first arrived in the region. Later, the British took control of the area and established Upper and Lower Canada. In 1867, Ontario became a province of the newly formed Dominion of Canada.
- The French and Indigenous Peoples: The French fur traders established the first European settlement in Ontario. They traded with Indigenous peoples in the area for furs, establishing relationships that lasted for centuries.
- The British Takeover: Following the Seven Years War, the British took control of Ontario from the French. They established Upper and Lower Canada, with Upper Canada becoming Ontario in 1867.
- The War of 1812: The War of 1812, fought between the United States and Great Britain, occurred in part on Ontario soil. The conflict helped to solidify Canadian identity and lead to a closer relationship between the British and Canadian governments.
The Symbolism of the Ontario Flag
The Ontario flag has a unique design featuring the provincial coat of arms in the center and the Union Jack in the top left corner. The coat of arms is symbolic of Ontario’s colonial history and its ties to Britain.
The coat of arms features a green shield with three gold maple leaves, representing Ontario’s natural resources and agriculture. Above the shield is a banner with the motto “Ut incepit Fidelis Sic Permanet,” meaning “Loyal she began, loyal she remains.” This motto represents Ontario’s loyalty to the British Crown.
The Union Jack in the top left corner of the flag is a reminder of Ontario’s past as a British colony. It represents the relationship between Ontario and Britain, as well as Ontario’s place within the larger Commonwealth of Nations. Additionally, the flag contains a stylized version of a trillium, Ontario’s provincial flower, in the center of the coat of arms.
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Green Shield | Ontario’s natural resources and agriculture |
| Gold Maple Leaves | Ontario’s natural resources and agriculture |
| Ut Incepit Fidelis Sic Permanet Banner | Ontario’s loyalty to the British Crown |
| Union Jack | Ontario’s ties to Britain and the Commonwealth of Nations |
| Trillium | Ontario’s provincial flower |
Overall, the Ontario flag is a representation of the province’s rich history and unique place within Canada and the Commonwealth.
The Coat of Arms
The coat of arms on the Ontario flag is a complex design that incorporates several symbols and elements. It was created in 1868 and was modified in 1909 and again in 1981 to include the motto “Loyal she began, loyal she remains.”
The coat of arms consists of a shield with a red cross on a white background. The red cross symbolizes the cross of St. George, the patron saint of England, while the white background represents peace and purity. The shield is surrounded by a green wreath with three maple leaves on each side. The maple leaves are a symbol of Canada and are also featured prominently on the national flag.
- The lion on the top represents England while the unicorn symbolizes Scotland. Both animals are wearing crowns which represent the monarchy.
- The three gold maple leaves at the bottom of the shield are a reminder of Ontario’s connection to the rest of Canada.
- The red and white roses on either side of the shield represent the House of Lancaster and the House of York, which fought for the British Crown in the War of the Roses. They also represent the two dominant cultural groups in Ontario; Anglophones and Francophones respectively.
The motto “Loyal she began, loyal she remains” reflects the province’s loyalty to the British Crown and its continued commitment to upholding the values of democracy, freedom, and justice.
| Symbol/Element | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Red cross on a white background | The cross of St. George |
| Green wreath with three maple leaves on each side | A symbol of Canada |
| Lion and unicorn wearing crowns | Represent England and Scotland respectively and also represent the monarchy |
| Three gold maple leaves | Remind of Ontario’s connection to the rest of Canada |
| Red and white roses | Represent the House of Lancaster and the House of York (who fought for the British Crown in the War of the Roses) and the two dominant cultural groups in Ontario, Anglophones and Francophones respectively |
The coat of arms on the Ontario flag is a visual representation of the province’s rich history and connection to the rest of Canada and the British Crown. It is a powerful symbol of the province’s commitment to democracy, freedom, and justice, and it continues to inspire pride and loyalty among Ontarians today.
The St. George’s Cross
The Ontario flag prominently features the St. George’s Cross, a red cross on a white background, in the center. This cross is commonly associated with the patron saint of England, St. George, and has been used as a symbol of English identity since the Middle Ages. The cross is also featured on the flags of several other countries and regions, including England, Georgia, and Barcelona.
The St. George’s Cross is believed to have been first used by the Crusaders in the 12th century, who wore a white surcoat with a red cross on the battlefield. Over time, the symbol grew in popularity and became associated with the English monarchy. It was later incorporated into the Union Jack, the national flag of the United Kingdom.
Symbols of Christianity
- Aside from its association with English identity, the St. George’s Cross also has strong ties to Christianity.
- St. George was a Christian martyr who was executed for refusing to renounce his faith.
- The red of the cross symbolizes the blood of Christ, while the white background represents purity and peace.
Historical Significance
For many Canadians, the Ontario flag is a symbol of the province’s rich history and ties to the British Empire. The flag with the St. George’s Cross has been used since 1965 and helps to showcase the province’s heritage to the world. The flag is also a reminder of Ontario’s role in founding the Dominion of Canada in 1867. The St. George’s cross is a testament to Ontario’s deep and enduring connection to England and the English-speaking world.
Today, Ontario is a diverse and multicultural province, and the flag serves as a unifying symbol for all Ontarians, regardless of their cultural backgrounds. It represents the ideals of freedom, democracy, peace, and prosperity and embodies the spirit of the people of Ontario.
Conclusion
The Ontario flag is a powerful symbol of the province’s history, heritage, and diversity. The presence of the St. George’s Cross on the flag serves to remind Ontarians of their past while also embracing the present and looking toward the future. It represents the provincial values and the rich multiculturalism that makes Ontario great.
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| St. George’s Cross | Symbol of English identity and Christianity |
| Red | Symbolizes the blood of Christ |
| White | Represents purity and peace |
The Ontario flag with the St. George’s Cross represents the province’s connection to the English-speaking world and its commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
The Golden Trillium
The Ontario flag prominently displays the provincial flower of Ontario – the white trillium. The trillium is a three-petaled flower that blooms in the spring and is commonly found in hardwood forests and wetlands throughout Ontario. However, the flag displays a golden trillium instead of the white trillium found in nature.
- The golden trillium was chosen for the flag design because it stands out more effectively against the red background of the flag than the white trillium.
- The three petals of the trillium symbolize the provinces of Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia, while the three leaves of the trillium represent the three territories of Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut.
- The trillium is also a symbol of the province’s natural beauty, as it is a beloved flower native to Ontario.
It’s important to note that the use of the golden trillium is unique to the Ontario flag and should not be confused with the official flower of Ontario, which is the white trillium. The use of the golden trillium on the flag has been a source of pride for many Ontarians and has become a recognizable symbol of the province.
Additionally, the trillium has played a significant role in Ontario’s history and culture. Native communities used trilliums for medicinal purposes, and the flower was also used as a symbol of purity and beauty during the Victorian era. The trillium has also been featured on Ontario’s coat of arms since 1868, further cementing its role as a symbol of the province.
| Symbolism | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Golden Trillium | Provincial flower displayed prominently on the flag |
| Three petals | Representation of Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia |
| Three leaves | Representation of the three territories of Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut |
Overall, the use of the golden trillium on the Ontario flag reflects the province’s natural beauty, cultural significance, and sense of pride. The trillium will forever remain a recognizable symbol of Ontario and a reminder of the province’s rich history and culture.
The Green Bar
The green bar located on the left-hand side of the Ontario flag symbolizes the province’s vast natural resources. It’s no secret that Ontario boasts some of the most beautiful landscapes in Canada. From the impressive Niagara Falls to the stunning Algonquin Provincial Park and the vast lake systems that surround the province, Ontario is a true natural wonderland. The green color of the bar represents the lush forests and parks that cover the province and are a crucial part of its identity.
The green bar also represents the role that the environment plays in the life of Ontarians, as well as their responsibility to protect it. Over the years, the province of Ontario has taken significant steps towards creating sustainable policies and practices to ensure the protection and conservation of its natural resources. This green bar reminds citizens that Ontario’s prosperity and future depends on a healthy and sustainable environment.
Ontario has an extensive network of parks and protected areas. The province offers many opportunities to explore and appreciate nature, and its citizens are committed to preserving it for future generations. It’s no surprise that Ontario is home to over 200 provincial parks, conservation reserves, and wilderness areas, covering an area larger than the entire province of Nova Scotia.
Ontario’s natural resources are a significant part of its economy, with forestry, fishing, and mining being important industries. However, the province understands the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental awareness and sustainability. The green bar represents this balance and the crucial role that nature plays in Ontario’s development and progress.
The Significance of Blue
One of the most prominent colors on the Ontario flag is blue. It is the background color for the shield in the center, which features a red cross and three golden maple leaves. But what does blue represent and why was it chosen for the flag of Ontario?
The color blue has a deep significance in many cultures. In Western societies, blue is often associated with calmness, stability, and trustworthiness. It is also the color of loyalty, devotion, and wisdom. Interestingly, blue is the world’s favorite color, according to a survey by YouGov. It is seen as universally liked and soothes the mind and spirit.
- In the Ontario flag, blue represents the province’s extensive water resources. With over a fifth of the world’s freshwater located in Ontario’s Great Lakes and rivers, water is a critical resource for the province’s biodiversity, economy, and people’s lives. Blue therefore symbolizes the importance of preserving and protecting Ontario’s waterways for future generations.
- Furthermore, blue is also a nod to Ontario’s British heritage. Blue is one of the primary colors in the Union Jack, the national flag of the United Kingdom, from which Ontario’s flag derives much of its design. The coat of arms in the center of Ontario’s flag also features the Union Jack in the upper left quadrant, alongside the fleur-de-lis of France, symbolic of the province’s Anglo-French history.
- Blue suggests an ideal of openness and honesty, which reflects the values and aspirations of the people of Ontario. As one of Canada’s most populous provinces and a major center for innovation and multiculturalism, Ontario prides itself on being an inclusive and welcoming place for people of diverse backgrounds and beliefs. Blue represents the shared principles and goals that unite Ontarians in building a better future for all.
In conclusion, the color blue on the Ontario flag is loaded with significance for Ontarians. It embodies the province’s vast water resources, British heritage, and the values of openness and honesty that underpin the province’s identity and aspirations. Blue is a powerful symbol that connects Ontarians with their history, culture, and natural environment.
Sources:
| YouGov. (2017). What Is The World’s Favourite Colour? | https://yougov.co.uk/topics/lifestyle/articles-reports/2017/08/14/what-worlds-favourite-colour |
The Significance of White
In the Ontario flag, the color white represents the peace and sincerity that are upheld by the province. It represents the purity and clarity of purpose that Ontario strives to maintain. White also symbolizes the winter season, which is a significant part of Ontario’s climate and culture.
- White represents peace and sincerity in Ontario.
- It symbolizes purity and clarity of purpose.
- White also represents the winter season in Ontario.
White has been used in flags and heraldry for centuries with similar meanings. It is often associated with goodness, light, and purity. The color white stands out boldly against the blue background of the Ontario flag, symbolizing the province’s unique identity and values.
Interestingly, Ontario is not the only Canadian province to include white in its flag. The white field in Ontario’s flag is identical to the central stripe in the Quebec flag and the background of the coat of arms of Prince Edward Island.
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| White | Peace, sincerity, purity, clarity of purpose |
| Winter Season | Culture and climate of Ontario |
Overall, the significance of the color white in the Ontario flag is a representation of the province’s pursuit of peace, sincerity, and clarity. It is a statement of Ontario’s unique identity, culture, and values.
Changes to the flag over time
The Ontario flag has evolved over the years, with changes to its design, colors, and symbols. Here is a brief history of the changes made to the flag:
- 1965: The original flag of Ontario featured the Union Jack in the upper left corner and the Ontario coat of arms in the center of a red field.
- 1981: The flag was updated to feature a stylized version of the coat of arms.
- 1994: The flag was modified to reflect the changing attitudes towards the role of the monarch in Canadian society. The Union Jack was removed, and the flag now featured only the shield from the Ontario coat of arms on a green and white background.
- 2006: The current flag of Ontario was introduced. The shield from the coat of arms is still the main symbol, but it is now surrounded by ten gold maple leaves representing Canada’s provinces and territories. The colors green and white are a nod to the province’s lush forests and snowy winters.
While the Ontario flag has undergone several changes, the number nine has remained a constant symbol throughout its history. The three maple leaves at the base of the shield represent Ontario’s three main rivers: the St. Lawrence, the Ottawa, and the Humber. The nine golden maple leaves that surround the shield represent the nine provinces that formed the Dominion of Canada in 1867.
Here is a table summarizing the changes made to the Ontario flag over time:
| Year | Design |
|---|---|
| 1965 | Union Jack in the upper left corner, coat of arms in the center of a red field |
| 1981 | Stylized coat of arms |
| 1994 | Shield from the coat of arms on a green and white background |
| 2006 | Shield from the coat of arms surrounded by ten gold maple leaves on a green and white background |
The changes made to the Ontario flag reflect the province’s evolving identity and its place in Canada. The current design pays homage to Ontario’s natural beauty and its important role in Canadian history.
Controversies surrounding the flag
The Ontario flag, like any other symbol, has not been immune to controversies. Here are some of the issues that have been associated with the flag:
- Design controversy: The flag design, which features the Ontario shield charged on a red background, has been criticized for lacking creativity and being too simplistic. Critics claim that the flag design does not represent the diversity and uniqueness of Ontario as a province.
- The presence of the union jack: The flag features a small Union Jack in the canton, which some deem outdated and irrelevant in modern Ontario, given that Canada is no longer a British colony. Others argue that the Union Jack serves as a reminder of the province’s history and its relationship with Great Britain.
- The number of points on the shield: The Ontario shield on the flag features three points on the bottom section and ten points on the top section, which some see as having a religious significance. While some see the ten points representing the Ten Commandments, others argue that they represent the ten provinces of Canada.
- The exclusion of Indigenous symbols: Some people have criticized the flag for lacking representation of Indigenous cultures, given the significance of Indigenous peoples in Ontario’s history and its current cultural landscape.
- Potential confusion: The simplicity of the flag design has led to occasional confusion with other flags, such as the Flag of Chatham-Kent and the Flag of Sudan, which share a similar color scheme and features a white star.
Ontario Shield Controversy
The Ontario shield on the flag has been the subject of controversy in debates surrounding its symbolism and meaning:
Some people see the three points at the bottom of the shield as representing the Trinity, while others believe that they represent the three original settlements of Ontario – Quebec City, Trois-Rivières, and Montreal. On the other hand, the ten points at the top of the shield have been seen by some as representing the Ten Commandments, while others argue that they represent the ten provinces of Canada.
| Shield Section | Alleged Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Three points at the bottom | Trinity or the three original settlements of Ontario (Quebec City, Trois-Rivières, and Montreal) |
| Ten points at the top | The Ten Commandments or the ten provinces of Canada |
Despite the debates, the Ontario government has maintained that the Ontario shield on the flag represents the province’s history and culture and the sense of belonging that Ontarians share.
FAQs about What Does the Ontario Flag Symbolize
Q: What are the colors of the Ontario flag?
A: The Ontario flag has two colors: blue and gold.
Q: What is the emblem on the Ontario flag?
A: The emblem on the Ontario flag is a stylized version of the shield from the Ontario coat of arms.
Q: What does the shield on the Ontario coat of arms represent?
A: The shield on the Ontario coat of arms represents Ontario’s history, natural resources, and industries.
Q: What is the significance of the trillium on the Ontario flag?
A: The trillium is Ontario’s official flower and is a symbol of the province.
Q: What do the three maple leaves on the Ontario flag represent?
A: The three maple leaves represent Canada, Ontario’s place within Canada, and the three founding cultures of the province: English, French, and Indigenous.
Q: When was the Ontario flag adopted?
A: The Ontario flag was adopted on May 21, 1965.
Q: Is the Ontario flag flown at half-mast during mourning?
A: Yes, the Ontario flag is flown at half-mast during mourning periods as a sign of respect and tribute.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading about what does the Ontario flag symbolize. Now, you know that the blue and gold flag with a trillium and three maple leaves on its emblem represents Ontario’s history, unique natural resources, and economic sectors. The flag’s design is an important symbol of the province’s place as part of Canada and its diverse cultural heritage. Please visit again later for more interesting articles.