About the Flag of Argentina
Although there is debate as to the origin of the design and colors of the flag of Argentina, most historians believe the colors represent the parting of the blue sky and were chosen by the leader of the Argentine revolution against Spain, Manuel Belgrano. The flag was raised for the first time in August 1812 in Buenos Aires, and was adopted by the Argentine National Congress following the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 9, 1816. It was not until February 1818 that the sun symbol was added to the flag.
Identification
The flag of Argentina is a white and light blue horizontal tri-band, with a yellow sun in the center that is called the "Sun of May." The shade of blue is called "Celestial Blue."
Size
The official dimensions of the flag are 9:14, with the size set at 0.9-by-1.4 meters in length and all three bands of equal size. However, much variation exists in the actual flag size, and most flags are of the ratio 1:2.
Types
It is common to see the flag of Argentina without the Sun of May, but this version is an ornamental flag only and must be hoisted below the Official Ceremony Flag bearing the sun.
Considerations
Until 1985, Argentine private citizens were not allowed to fly the Official Ceremony Flag. That right was reserved for military and government only, according to Encyclopedia Britannica.
Fun Fact
Flag Day in Argentina is celebrated on the anniversary of Belgrano's death, on June 20 each year.
