The Lone Star – Liberian Flag Meaning.
Liberian Flag, often referred to as the Lone Star, bears a striking resemblance to the flag of the United States, symbolizing Liberia’s origins with former black slaves from the United States and the Caribbean. Both flags belong to the stars and stripes family.
Adopted on August 24, 1847, the Liberian flag boasts similar red and white stripes, along with a blue square featuring a white star in the canton.
In April 1827, during Liberia’s time as a colony, a resolution was passed establishing its first flag, which closely resembled that of the United States but with a white cross in place of the stars in the canton.
In anticipation of independence, a committee of seven women undertook the task of redesigning and hand-stitching the Liberian flag. Governor Joseph Jenkins Roberts, in a letter dated July 10, 1847, appointed Susannah Elizabeth Lewis to lead the committee. Other members included Matilda Newport, Rachel Johnson, Mary Hunter, Mrs. J. B. Russwurm, Colonette Teage Ellis, and Sara Draper. These women, all born in the United States and many married to prominent Liberian figures, played a significant role in shaping Liberia’s national symbol.
The newly designed flag was officially adopted on August 24, 1847, just a month after Liberia declared independence on July 26, 1847. The flag’s unveiling during a celebration in Monrovia marked a pivotal moment in the nation’s history. Susannah Lewis delivered a stirring speech, accompanied by speeches from prominent Liberian leaders and religious figures, as well as musical performances.
In the 1850s and 1860s, the Eusibia N. Roye, owned by Edward James Roye, became the first Liberian-owned ship to proudly display the flag in New York City and Liverpool ports. Additionally, in 1860, the Liberian flag was featured on the country’s first known postage stamp.
Flag Day was established as a national holiday on August 24 by President Daniel Edward Howard in 1915. Despite considerations for changes to national symbols in the 1970s, including the flag, a commission headed by McKinley Alfred Deshield Sr. ultimately recommended no alterations to the flag’s design.
In 2022, the image of the seven-woman committee designing the Liberian flag was featured on the new five-hundred-dollar Liberian banknote.
Liberia’s flag is a common sight on ships worldwide, as the country offers registration under its flag. Many shipping companies opt for Liberian registration to circumvent taxes and regulations enforced by other nations. With an estimated 1,700 foreign-owned ships flying the Liberian flag, this practice contributes significantly to the country’s revenue, making it the second most popular flag of convenience after Panama’s.
The utilization of the Liberian flag on ships across the globe stems from Liberia’s advantageous registration policies. This practice allows shipowners to operate under Liberian regulations, which often offer more favorable conditions compared to those of other countries.
The maritime tradition of registering vessels under the Liberian flag dates back to the early 20th century. Over time, Liberia has refined its registration processes, offering streamlined procedures and competitive fees. As a result, a substantial number of foreign-owned ships choose Liberian registration, bolstering the country’s maritime industry and contributing significantly to its economy.
The revenue generated from ship registration plays a crucial role in Liberia’s economic stability, providing funds for infrastructure development, social programs, and government operations. Additionally, the maritime sector creates employment opportunities for Liberians, both directly and indirectly, further stimulating economic growth.
Despite occasional scrutiny regarding the practice of flagging vessels under Liberia’s flag of convenience, the country continues to maintain its position as a leading maritime registry. Through ongoing efforts to uphold international standards and regulations, Liberia remains a trusted flag state within the global shipping community.
As Liberia looks to the future, its maritime sector is poised to remain a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, supported by the enduring presence of the iconic Lone Star flag on ships sailing the world’s oceans.
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