Civil Flag, State Flag and National Flag Abroad of Anguilla

Colonised by English settlers in 1650, Anguilla was governed by Great Britain until the early 19^th century, when at the resentment of the population it was colonised into a single British dependency together with the neighbouring islands, Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Seeking separate recognition, there were failed uprisings before Anguilla was at last officially recognised in 1980.  It withdrew from the former territory and became recognised as a separate British dependency.

 The momentum for a uniting emblem in Anguilla was unwavering and on May 30 1990, the new flag of Anguilla flag was hoisted. As a dependency, the Queen was first asked to endorse the design, but her authority was a formality.

 On land this flag is the “unofficial” national flag of Anguilla, used for decorative and unique purposes inside and outside the borders of Anguilla. As such it is a popular choice.  The official national flag is the Union Jack.

The Symbolic Meaning

The flag of Anguilla is blue, with the British Union Jack featured in the upper hoist corner and the Anguillan Coat of Arms centred on the fly of the flag. The Coat of Arms is a shield with three orange dolphins represented in circular motion on a white background above a light blue base, the sea.

The Union Jack is symbolic of Anguilla’s historical and current ties with Britain. The blue field surrounding the Coat of Arms represents the island in the water.  The three dolphins on the shield are understood to represent wisdom, strength and friendship above a peaceful sea.