SAO TOME AND PRINCIPE

Description

The flag of SAO TOME AND PRINCIPE consists of a red triangle situated at the hoist, with three horizontal green, yellow and green bands charged with two five-pointed black stars at the centre. Adopted in 1975 to replace the flag of Portugal from the colonial period, it has been the flag of the Democratic Republic of SC#o TomC) and PrC-ncipe since the country gained independence in that same year. The design of the present flag was inspired by and is almost identical to the flag of the Movement for the Liberation of SC#o TomC) and PrC-ncipe.

The Portuguese colonized the islands of SC#o TomC) and PrC-ncipe during the 16th century and incorporated them into their colonial empire. Four centuries later, the BatepC! massacre in 1953 stoked nationalistic sentiment and galvanized a struggle for independence. This was led by the Movement for the Liberation of SC#o TomC) and PrC-ncipe (MLSTP), which were established seven years later.

The Portuguese, however, refused to grant this and continued to fight on until the Carnation Revolution occurred in 1974. The new government decided to withdraw from their remaining colonies, and negotiated on a roadmap for independence with the MLSTP, whom they had recognized as the “sole representative” of the islands. Several submissions for a new flag were made, all of which utilized the colours of the Pan-Africanist movement. These were all turned down, and a new flag b reportedly designed by MLSTP leader and future president Manuel Pinto da Costa b was approved of. It was adopted either on July 12, 1975 b the day the country became independent b or on November 5 of that same year. The flag is almost identical to the flag of the MLSTP, and although they lost their “monopoly of power” in 1990, the flag remained unchanged.

Flags come in various types as described below and sizes are commonly referred to in feet rather than metres, so please read about the various types of flag below and then make your selection from the drop down menu

Decorative Flags: These have 2 grommets on LHS sleeve and are printed on polyester which makes for a lightweight flag with a variety of uses such as flying on indoor poles or wall dC)cor. They are great for supporting favourite sports team; decoration in parades, marches and occasional flying on an outdoor flagpole. We emphasise these flags are not designed for prolonged flying on flagpoles as sun and wind would affect the lightweight material very quickly. There are two common sizes in decorative flags which are 5x3ft (150x90cm) and the smaller 3x2ft (90x60cm)

Outdoor Flagpole Flags: These are a btrilobalb material which is a knitted polyester for outdoor flag use which is long life, open weave, quick wicking and drying

Note this is knitted polyester and not a woven polyester, with the latter being weaker and lighter fabric unsuitable for outdoor use.

Our flags have double-stitched hems, and sewn loops so that you can attach Sista clips to secure them to the polebs cords. The most common sizes in outdoor flags is 6x3ft (180x90cm)

Sista Clips for Outdoor Flagpole Flags: The correct name is Inglefield clip or Brummel hook but commonly known as sister or sista. Itbs a plastic clip for joining a flag or ensign quickly, easily and securely to flag halyards so that the flag can be hoisted. Each clip resembles a link of chain, with a split through one side.

Hand Held Flags: These are printed on lightweight polyester with 2ft (60cm) plastic or wooden stick. They have a variety of uses such as parades, marches or supporting favourite sports team. They are 1.5x1ft (0.45×0.3m)

Desk / Table Flags: These are miniature flags printed on lightweight polyester measuring 6x4inches (16x11cm) with an 11″ (28cm) plastic pole. They are used as hand held or can be stood on desktops when inserted into a special plastic base (not included in the price)

Desk / Table Flag Bases: These are available to hold either 1,2,3,5,11 or 17 flags which are available HERE

Patches: These measure 3.5bx2.25b (8.25×5.5cm) and are sewn or iron-on miniature embroidered cotton flags. They are used mainly by travellers who affix them to jackets, jeans, T-Shirts or backpacks