Break out the baklava and the ouzo, kids because this week we're getting out our balalaikas and learning to dance- so say OPA! And get ready- because this week, it's Greece!
Adopted in 1822 for national and civil usage, the flag draws its colors from the flag raises following independence from the Ottoman Empire in the early 19th Century. The blue, white and the white cross have been constant features in one form or another since that time. Blue represents the sea and the sky, while the white reflects the purity of the Greek independence struggle. The cross in the canton represents the Greek religious faith.
The stripes are where it gets interesting... the nine stripes represent the nine syllables in the cry 'Freedom or Death!' which was shouted a lot during the Greek War of Independence. If, like me, you were wondering how the heck you get nine syllables out of 'freedom or death' well then, have no fear, Wikipedia is here: Eleftheria i thanatos! (That's how you get to nine syllables-- you shout it in Greek!)
Another interesting factoid: the shade of blue has also varied over time. Today, it's the original light blue color it was in 1822- though it was altered in the 1970s to a much darker blue, navy shade. (It'd be interesting to know if that had something to do with the transition back to democracy after the Colonels were overthrown in 1974.
So put your hands together for Greece, kids! And remember, until next time keep your flags flying: FREAK or otherwise!
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