French Flag

The flag of France is tricolor featuring three vertical bands blue, white, and red. The French flag has been used since the Revolution and has been a symbol of liberty throughout the world.

Since the official adoption of the tricolor flag in 1794 the colors have been associated with different symbolism. Some associate the three colors with the three main estates of the Ancien Régime: Clergy: White, Nobility: Red, and Bourgeoisie: Blue. Others associate the three colors as representing the colors of Paris (blue and red) and white represents the Bourbon Dynasty symbolizing freedom, equality, and brotherhood, ideals of the French Revolution.

The French flag has inspired the design of many other country flags including the flag of Italy because of its simple yet symbolic design. Because France does not have a coat of arms on the flag, the tricolors are the national emblem.

Paris has been represented by blue and red of the flag since 1358 when they were used by the supporters of Etienne Marcel, the then leader of a Parisian revolt against the King of France and the Dauphin. In 1794, the Convention officially adopted the tricolor, the Commander of the Guard, Lafayette, having reputedly added the royal white between the blue and the red.