Liberia’s flag (24 August 1847) features eleven red‑and‑white stripes and a blue canton charged with a single white star. The stripes honour signatories of the Declaration of Independence and echo the American pattern; the lone star proclaims sovereignty—the “Lone Star Republic.” Ratios vary historically; modern usage commonly follows U.S.‑style proportions. Protocol and maritime law govern wide civil and naval use.
Adopted on 24 August 1847, days after the republic’s founding, Liberia’s flag consciously echoes the flag of the United States while asserting distinct statehood through a single white star. Eleven horizontal stripes—six red and five white—represent the eleven signatories of Liberia’s Declaration of Independence and the sacrifices of nation‑building. The blue canton in the upper hoist bears one white five‑pointed star symbolising the “Lone Star Republic,” free and sovereign among nations.
The historical connection to the United States, from which many early settlers arrived, informed the choice of colours and pattern: red for courage, white for purity, and blue for fidelity and justice. Yet the single star differentiates Liberia’s emblem from its inspiration, locating identity in West Africa.
Law regulates construction and respectful use; proportions have followed U.S. practice with minor local variations. In addition to government display on land, Liberia’s open ship registry has given the flag extensive maritime presence. Protocol prescribes order of precedence, half‑masting, and dignified retirement; improper commercial use and desecration are offences.
Across civil ceremonies, schools, and international missions, the Lone Star flag functions as a durable symbol linking constitutional heritage to a modern sovereign republic.