This Week In Vexillology #48

This week, we're hopping on the Orient Express and taking the night train to Istanbul because this week in vexillology, we've got Turkey!

Adopted for national and civil usage on June 5th, 1936, the current flag bears some resemblance to flags that date as early as the 17th Century under the Ottoman Empire.  However, following Turkey's defeat in the First World War when Ataturk deposed the Sultan and declared a Republic, all emblems and symbols were destroyed and the flag became the main symbol of the new Republic.

The star and the crescent are both common symbols of Islam and are always placed slightly towards the hoistof the flag.  One point of the star touches the invisble line that joins the two horns of the crescent moon.   The star has undergone an interesting evolution over the years- first appearing on Ottoman flags as far back as 1793 with eight points before usually having five points by the early 19th Century.  By 1936, it had assumed it's present form and position on the flag.

So put your hands together for Turkey!  And remember, until next time keep your flags flying- FREAK or otherwise!