Bermuda

The National Flag of Bermuda

The national flag of Bermuda is a distinctive symbol of its British heritage and unique identity. The flag of Bermuda consists of a red field with the Union Jack in the canton (upper hoist quarter) and the Bermuda coat of arms in the fly. Each element of the flag holds significant meaning, reflecting the history and values of Bermuda.

Bermuda Flag Clip Art Images, Background, and Wallpapers

Free Download of the Bermuda Flag Image

To download an image of the Bermuda flag, right-click on the image and select “Save image as…” on a desktop or laptop. On a mobile device, press and hold on the image, then select “Download image” or “Save image” from the options that appear.

For Apple (iPhone/iPad):

• Press and hold the image.
• A menu will appear; tap “Add to Photos” or “Save Image.”

For Android:

• Press and hold the image.
• From the menu that appears, choose “Download image” or “Save image.”

This will save the image to your device’s photo gallery or downloads folder.

Design and Colors of the Bermuda Flag

The Bermuda flag features a design that is rich in symbolism and meaning:

• Red Field: The red background is derived from the British Red Ensign, signifying Bermuda’s status as a British Overseas Territory.
• Union Jack: Located in the canton, the Union Jack represents the historical ties and constitutional relationship with the United Kingdom.
• Bermuda Coat of Arms: The coat of arms features a red lion holding a shield that depicts the wreck of the ship Sea Venture upon the reefs of Bermuda in 1609, leading to the island’s settlement.
• Red: (#C8102E) Represents courage and strength, reflecting the resilience of the Bermudian people.
• White: (#FFFFFF) Symbolizes purity and peace, embodying the island’s ideals and the integrity of its citizens.
• Blue: (#00247D) Signifies the surrounding Atlantic Ocean and Bermuda’s maritime heritage.

The Origins and Design of the Bermuda Flag

The flag of Bermuda has a rich history that reflects the island’s journey and its connection to the British Crown. The design of the flag was officially adopted on October 4, 1910, and it has remained a symbol of Bermuda’s identity and heritage ever since.

The Birth of a National Symbol

Prior to 1910, Bermuda used the British Union Jack and the British Red Ensign without defacement. The current flag incorporates the Union Jack, acknowledging Bermuda’s status as a British Overseas Territory, while the inclusion of the coat of arms makes the flag distinctly Bermudian. The coat of arms, granted in 1910, features the wreck of the Sea Venture, a pivotal event in Bermuda’s history.

Symbolism of the Flag’s Design

The symbolism of the Bermuda flag is deeply rooted in the island’s history:

• Union Jack: Represents the constitutional link with the United Kingdom and the British Crown.
• Red Field: Derived from the British Red Ensign, traditionally used by British merchant ships.
• Coat of Arms: The red lion symbolizes England, while the shield depicting the wrecked Sea Venture signifies the founding of Bermuda as a British colony.

The Central Design Elements

The central design elements of the Bermuda flag include:

• Coat of Arms: Central to the flag’s fly, the coat of arms makes the flag uniquely Bermudian.
• Sea Venture Wreck: Depicted on the shield, representing the shipwreck in 1609 that led to the permanent settlement of Bermuda.
• Red Lion: Standing atop the shield, the red lion represents England, indicating the territory’s British heritage.

Adoption and Official Recognition

The current design of the Bermuda flag was officially adopted on October 4, 1910. It is one of the few British Overseas Territories to use a red ensign as its official flag on land, rather than the more common blue ensign. The flag is recognized under Bermuda’s laws and is a symbol of the territory’s unique identity and heritage.

The Flag in Modern Bermudian Identity

Today, the Bermuda flag is a powerful symbol of national pride and identity for Bermudians. It is prominently displayed during national holidays, on government buildings, and at international events. The flag represents Bermuda’s rich history, cultural heritage, and its enduring relationship with the United Kingdom.

The Significance of the Bermuda Flag

The flag of Bermuda holds a deep and significant place in the hearts of its people, symbolizing the rich history, culture, and unity of the island. Displaying the Bermuda flag is an act of patriotism and respect, and it is done according to specific guidelines and on designated days that hold special meaning for the territory.

When the Flag of Bermuda Can Be Displayed

The Bermuda flag may be displayed on any day, but there are specific guidelines for when and how it should be presented. The flag should always be treated with the utmost respect, never touching the ground, and should be handled with care. It can be flown on public buildings, at schools, during official ceremonies, and citizens are encouraged to display the flag during national holidays and important commemorations.

Flag Days and National Holidays

In Bermuda, there are several official flag days and national holidays when the flag is prominently displayed:

• Bermuda Day: Celebrated on the last Friday in May, this holiday marks the unofficial beginning of summer. The flag is central to the celebrations, which include parades and cultural events.
• National Heroes’ Day: Observed on the third Monday in June, this day honors Bermudian national heroes. The flag is displayed in recognition of their contributions to the territory.
• Remembrance Day: Commemorated on November 11, this day honors those who served and sacrificed in the armed forces. The flag is flown at half-mast to pay respects.
• Queen’s Birthday Parade: Although the Queen’s Birthday is no longer a public holiday, the flag is displayed during official ceremonies recognizing the monarch’s official birthday.

Love for the Flag and Patriotism

The Bermuda flag is not just a national symbol; it represents the pride and love that Bermudians have for their island. The flag’s design embodies the territory’s history, unity, and enduring spirit. Bermudians demonstrate their love for the flag and their patriotism in various ways. During national holidays, the flag is displayed across the island—from homes and public spaces to boats and businesses. Schools and community organizations instill a sense of respect for the flag, often including flag ceremonies as part of significant events.

Bermuda Flag Emoji Codes

1. Unicode Code Points

• Unicode: U+1F1E7 U+1F1F2
• UTF-16: D83C DDE7 D83C DDF2

2. HTML Entities

• HTML Entity (Decimal): 🇧🇲
• HTML Entity (Hexadecimal): 🇧🇲

3. CSS

content: "\1F1E7\1F1F2";

4. JavaScript (JSON) & Java

// JavaScript Example
const bmFlag = "\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDF2";

// Java Example
String bmFlag = "\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDF2";

5. PHP & Ruby

// PHP Example
$bmFlag = "\u{1F1E7}\u{1F1F2}";

// Ruby Example
bm_flag = "\u{1F1E7}\u{1F1F2}"

6. Perl

my $bmFlag = "\x{1F1E7}\x{1F1F2}";

7. Python

bm_flag = "\U0001F1E7\U0001F1F2"

8. C#

string bmFlag = "\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDF2";

9. Swift

let bmFlag = "\u{1F1E7}\u{1F1F2}"

10. Objective-C

NSString *bmFlag = @"\U0001F1E7\U0001F1F2";

11. JSON

{
  "bmFlag": "\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDF2"
}

12. SQL

INSERT INTO table_name (column_name) VALUES ('\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDF2');

13. Shell Scripting (Bash)

bm_flag=$'\U1F1E7\U1F1F2'

14. Go (Golang)

bmFlag := "\U0001F1E7\U0001F1F2"

15. Kotlin

val bmFlag = "\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDF2"

About Bermuda

Geography and Topography

Location and Geography

Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory located in the North Atlantic Ocean, approximately 1,030 km (640 miles) east-southeast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, USA. The archipelago consists of 181 islands, with a total area of about 54 square kilometers (21 square miles). The geography of Bermuda includes:

• A chain of islands and islets interconnected by bridges and causeways
• Beaches with pink sand, created by a blend of crushed coral and shells
• Low hills and fertile valleys
• A subtropical climate influenced by the Gulf Stream

Bermuda Map

Area and Population

The total area of Bermuda is approximately 54 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest territories in the world. As of 2023, the population is estimated to be around 64,000 people.

Demographics and Ethnic Composition

The population of Bermuda is diverse, with the following ethnic composition:

• Black Bermudians: approximately 53% of the population
• White Bermudians: around 31%
• Mixed and other ethnic groups: about 16%

Name and History

Origin of the Name “Bermuda”

The name “Bermuda” originates from the Spanish explorer Juan de Bermúdez, who discovered the islands in 1505. The archipelago was named after him, and his maps helped future sailors navigate the surrounding waters.

History

Bermuda’s history begins with its discovery by Spanish explorer Juan de Bermúdez in 1505. However, it remained uninhabited until 1609 when the English ship Sea Venture was wrecked on its reefs. Survivors established a settlement, and in 1612, Bermuda became an official English colony. Key historical events include:

• The establishment of St. George’s in 1612, one of the oldest continuously inhabited English towns in the New World
• The use of Bermuda as a strategic naval base during the American Revolutionary War and the War of 1812
• The abolition of slavery in 1834, following the British Emancipation Act
• The development of tourism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries

Government and Politics

Capital

Hamilton is the capital of Bermuda. As the administrative and commercial center, it hosts government offices, financial institutions, and cultural landmarks.

Government and Politics

Bermuda is a self-governing British Overseas Territory with a parliamentary representative democratic system. The government is divided into three branches: the executive, led by the Premier; the legislative, consisting of a bicameral Parliament (House of Assembly and Senate); and the judicial, which operates independently. Bermuda’s political parties include the Progressive Labour Party and the One Bermuda Alliance.

Values and Culture

Bermudian culture is a blend of British and African influences, emphasizing community, tradition, and respect for heritage. The island values politeness, friendliness, and a relaxed pace of life, often referred to as “Bermuda time.”

Religion

Religion plays an important role in Bermudian society, with Christianity being the predominant faith, practiced by about 67% of the population. Major denominations include Anglican, Roman Catholic, African Methodist Episcopal, and Methodist churches. Other religions, such as Islam, Hinduism, and Judaism, are also present in smaller numbers.

Holidays

Major public holidays in Bermuda include:

• Bermuda Day on the last Friday in May, marking the start of summer
• National Heroes Day on the third Monday in June, honoring Bermudian heroes
• Emancipation Day and Somers Day, celebrated on consecutive days known as Cup Match, featuring a popular cricket match
• Boxing Day on December 26
• Religious holidays like Christmas and Easter are widely celebrated

Demographics and Society

Language

The official language of Bermuda is English, spoken by the entire population. Bermudian English has its own distinct accent and vocabulary influenced by British and American English, as well as Portuguese from the Azorean community.

Society and Sports

Bermuda has a vibrant sporting culture, with popular sports including:

• Cricket: The annual Cup Match is a significant event, drawing large crowds for the two-day cricket game between rival teams.
• Football (Soccer): Widely played and followed throughout the island.
• Sailing and Water Sports: Due to its maritime location, sailing, boating, and fishing are popular activities. Bermuda hosted the America’s Cup in 2017.
• Golf: The island features several world-class golf courses.

Safety

Bermuda is generally considered a safe destination for residents and tourists. Petty crime can occur, but violent crime is rare. The Bermudian government places a high priority on public safety and law enforcement.

Economy and Currency

Economy

Bermuda has a highly developed economy, driven by financial services and tourism. Key sectors include:

• Offshore Insurance and Reinsurance: Bermuda is a global leader in this industry, hosting numerous international companies.
• Tourism: Known for its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, tourism is a major contributor to the economy.

Bermuda’s economy is characterized by a high per capita income and a high standard of living.

Currency

The official currency of Bermuda is the Bermudian Dollar (BMD), which is pegged 1:1 to the U.S. Dollar. Both currencies are used interchangeably on the island.

Culture and Arts

Culture and Arts

Bermudian culture is a unique blend of British, African, and Caribbean influences. Cultural expressions include:

• Gombey Dance: A vibrant traditional dance featuring colorful costumes and rhythmic drumming, reflecting African, Caribbean, and British heritage.
• Music: Influenced by calypso, reggae, and jazz, with local musicians contributing to the island’s musical landscape.
• Art and Literature: Bermuda has a thriving arts scene, with galleries showcasing local and international artists.

Cuisine

Bermudian cuisine reflects its maritime heritage and multicultural influences. Key elements include:

• Seafood: Dishes like fish chowder (often flavored with sherry peppers and black rum), spiny lobster, and wahoo are popular.
• Bermuda Onions: Once a major export, these sweet onions are used in various local dishes.
• Black Rum and Cocktails: The Dark ‘n Stormy (black rum and ginger beer) and Rum Swizzle are signature Bermudian drinks.
• Johnny Bread: A traditional sweet, dense bread often served with meals.

National Anthem

The official national anthem of Bermuda is “God Save the King,” reflecting its status as a British Overseas Territory. Additionally, “Hail to Bermuda” is used as a territorial song to express local pride and identity.

Infrastructure and Transportation

Transportation

Transportation in Bermuda is unique due to its small size and efforts to limit traffic congestion. Key features include:

• Public Transportation: An efficient system of buses and ferries connects the islands.
• Private Vehicles: Only residents are allowed to own cars, and only one car per household is permitted.
• Motor Scooters and Bicycles: Popular modes of transport for both locals and tourists.
• Air Travel: L.F. Wade International Airport provides flights to destinations in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.

Time Zone

Bermuda operates on Atlantic Standard Time (AST), which is UTC−4:00. Daylight Saving Time is observed, aligning with the United States.

Web and Phone Code

Bermuda’s internet country code is “.bm,” and its international dialing code is +1 441.

Bermuda: Things to See and Do

Bermuda is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, offering a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Bermuda:

Explore Historic Sites

Bermuda has a wealth of historical landmarks:

• St. George’s Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this town is the oldest English settlement in the New World, featuring well-preserved colonial architecture.
• Fort St. Catherine: A historic fort offering panoramic views and exhibits on Bermuda’s military history.
• National Museum of Bermuda: Located in the Royal Naval Dockyard, it showcases the island’s maritime history.

Enjoy Beautiful Beaches

Bermuda is famous for its pink sand beaches:

• Horseshoe Bay Beach: One of the most popular beaches, known for its crescent shape and crystal-clear waters.
• Elbow Beach: A picturesque spot ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
• Warwick Long Bay: Offers seclusion and stunning natural beauty.

Experience Water Activities

The surrounding waters provide opportunities for:

• Snorkeling and Diving: Explore coral reefs, shipwrecks, and abundant marine life.
• Sailing and Boating: Charter a boat or join a tour to see the island from the sea.
• Fishing: Deep-sea fishing excursions are available for enthusiasts.

Visit Nature Reserves and Parks

Discover Bermuda’s natural landscapes:

• Crystal and Fantasy Caves: Underground caves featuring dramatic stalactites and underground pools.
• Spittal Pond Nature Reserve: The largest nature reserve on the island, ideal for bird watching and hiking.
• Botanical Gardens: A 36-acre garden showcasing local and exotic flora.

Savor the Cuisine

Indulge in Bermudian culinary delights:

• Try Local Seafood: Enjoy fresh fish dishes like wahoo steaks and rockfish.
• Visit a Traditional Pub: Experience local hospitality and cuisine.
• Attend a Fish Fry: Participate in community events featuring local food and music.

Participate in Cultural Events

Engage with local traditions:

• Harbour Nights: A weekly street festival in Hamilton with local vendors, music, and Gombey dancers.
• Cup Match Festival: An annual two-day cricket match accompanied by festivities and celebrations.

Shop for Local Crafts

Find unique souvenirs:

• Bermuda Shorts: Purchase authentic Bermuda shorts in vibrant colors.
• Handmade Crafts: Visit local markets for jewelry, pottery, and artwork.

Relax and Unwind

Enjoy the island’s tranquility:

• Spa Treatments: Indulge in spa services offered at many resorts.
• Golf: Play a round at one of Bermuda’s renowned golf courses.