Northern Mariana Islands

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Flag of the Northern Mariana Islands Design

The flag of the Northern Mariana Islands features a blue field with a central symbol that represents the unique cultural heritage of the islands. The central element of the flag is a white, five-pointed star, which is set atop a gray latte stone—a traditional Chamorro stone pillar used in the ancient architecture of the Mariana Islands. Encircling these symbols is a garland (or mwarmwar) made from local flowers and leaves, which represents the cultural and historical traditions of the indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian people. The proportion of the flag is 1:2. The current design of the Northern Mariana Islands flag was adopted on July 4, 1985.

Exact Colors and Color Codes of the Flag

  • Blue (Field): #0067B9
  • White (Star): #FFFFFF
  • Gray (Latte Stone): #808080
  • Green, Red, Yellow, and White (Garland): Multiple colors representing various flowers and leaves

Emojis

  • Northern Mariana Islands Flag Emoji: 🇲🇵
  • (select, copy, and paste)
  • Northern Mariana Islands Emojis: 🇲🇵, 🏝️, 🌺, 🌊
  • (select, copy, and paste)

Meaning of the Northern Mariana Islands Flag

  • Blue Field: Represents the Pacific Ocean that surrounds the islands.
  • White Star: Symbolizes the Commonwealth’s place within the United States.
  • Latte Stone: Represents the indigenous Chamorro culture and strength.
  • Garland (Mwarmwar): Reflects the cultural heritage and unity of the islands’ people.

The Flag of the Northern Mariana Islands

The flag of the Northern Mariana Islands is a symbol of the commonwealth’s unique culture, history, and its association with the United States. It features a blue field with a white star, a gray latte stone in the center, and a decorative wreath of flowers, reflecting the heritage and traditions of the islands.

Table of Contents

Northern Mariana Islands Flag Clip Art Images, Background, and Wallpapers

Free Download of the Northern Mariana Islands Flag Image

To download an image of the Northern Mariana Islands 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.

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

Design and Colors of the Northern Mariana Islands Flag

The flag of the Northern Mariana Islands features a design rich in cultural symbolism:

  • Star: The white star represents the Commonwealth’s place in the United States and its connection to the American flag.
  • Latte Stone: The gray latte stone is a traditional symbol of Chamorro culture, representing strength and resilience.
  • Wreath: The decorative wreath, called a “mwáár,” features local flowers, including plumeria and other native flora, symbolizing peace, hospitality, and the islands’ natural beauty.
  • Blue Background: The blue field represents the Pacific Ocean, surrounding the islands and symbolizing their location and connection to the sea.

The Origins and Design of the Northern Mariana Islands Flag

The flag of the Northern Mariana Islands was officially adopted on July 1, 1985. Its design reflects the islands’ heritage, the Chamorro and Carolinian cultures, and its status as a Commonwealth in political union with the United States.

The Birth of a Unique Symbol

The flag was designed to represent the cultural identity of the Northern Mariana Islands. The central elements were chosen to symbolize unity and the islands’ historical heritage, with the latte stone representing the traditional foundation of island life and the wreath symbolizing the islands’ welcoming nature.

Evolution of the Flag’s Symbolism

The symbolism of the Northern Mariana Islands flag has evolved to represent the unity of its diverse cultural heritage. The design elements are a tribute to the islands’ Chamorro and Carolinian roots:

  • Latte Stone: A key symbol of ancient Chamorro culture, representing the traditional pillars that supported the homes of the native people.
  • Wreath: A decorative element that combines native flora, signifying peace, warmth, and the hospitality of the islands’ people.

The Central Design Elements

The central design elements of the Northern Mariana Islands flag include the latte stone and the wreath:

  • Latte Stone: Positioned in the center of the flag, symbolizing the strength and heritage of the Chamorro people.
  • Wreath: Surrounds the latte stone, composed of traditional flowers, highlighting the islands’ natural beauty and cultural diversity.

Adoption and Official Recognition

The flag of the Northern Mariana Islands was officially adopted on July 1, 1985. It is a cherished symbol of the Commonwealth, displayed at government buildings, schools, and during official ceremonies to honor the islands’ culture and heritage.

The Flag in Modern Identity

Today, the flag of the Northern Mariana Islands is a proud symbol of the islands’ identity and connection to the United States. It is prominently displayed during national and local holidays, such as Commonwealth Day and Flag Day. The flag represents the unity and resilience of the Northern Mariana Islands’ people and their vibrant cultural heritage.

The Significance of the Northern Mariana Islands Flag

The flag of the Northern Mariana Islands holds a deep and significant place in the hearts of its people, symbolizing the rich history, culture, and unity of the Commonwealth. Displaying the Northern Mariana Islands flag is an act of pride and respect, reflecting the unique heritage and identity of the islands.

When the Flag of the Northern Mariana Islands Can Be Displayed

The flag of the Northern Mariana Islands may be displayed on any day, but it is prominently shown during significant local and national holidays. It is often flown alongside the United States flag, symbolizing the islands’ status as a Commonwealth in political union with the U.S. The flag is treated with respect and care, reflecting the pride of the Northern Mariana Islands’ people in their heritage.

Flag Days and National Holidays

In the Northern Mariana Islands, the flag is prominently displayed during various local and national holidays:

  • Commonwealth Day: Celebrated annually to honor the establishment of the Commonwealth, showcasing the islands’ cultural heritage.
  • Flag Day: A day dedicated to celebrating the flag and what it represents for the people of the Northern Mariana Islands.
  • July 4 – Independence Day: Although primarily a U.S. holiday, it is also celebrated in the Northern Mariana Islands, reflecting the islands’ connection to the United States.

Love for the Flag and Cultural Pride

The flag of the Northern Mariana Islands is not just a symbol; it represents the pride and cultural heritage of its people. The flag’s elements—the latte stone and wreath—embody the islands’ history, unity, and enduring spirit. The flag is an essential part of celebrations and ceremonies, demonstrating the Northern Mariana Islands’ rich cultural tapestry and their connection to the United States.

Northern Mariana Islands Flag Emoji Codes

1. Unicode Code Points

  • Unicode: U+1F1F2 U+1F1F5
  • UTF-16: D83C DDF2 D83C DDF5

2. HTML Entities

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

3. CSS

content: "\1F1F2\1F1F5";

4. JavaScript (JSON) & Java


// JavaScript Example
const marianaFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF2\uD83C\uDDF5";

// Java Example
String marianaFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF2\uD83C\uDDF5";

5. PHP & Ruby


// PHP Example
$marianaFlag = "\u{1F1F2}\u{1F1F5}";

// Ruby Example
mariana_flag = "\u{1F1F2}\u{1F1F5}"

6. Perl

my $marianaFlag = "\x{1F1F2}\x{1F1F5}";

7. Python

mariana_flag = "\U0001F1F2\U0001F1F5"

8. C#

string marianaFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF2\uD83C\uDDF5";

9. Swift

let marianaFlag = "\u{1F1F2}\u{1F1F5}"

10. Objective-C

NSString *marianaFlag = @"\U0001F1F2\U0001F1F5";

11. JSON

{
    "marianaFlag": "\uD83C\uDDF2\uD83C\uDDF5"
}

12. SQL

INSERT INTO table_name (column_name) VALUES ('\uD83C\uDDF2\uD83C\uDDF5');

13. Shell Scripting (Bash)

mariana_flag=$'\U1F1F2\U1F1F5'

14. Go (Golang)

marianaFlag := "\U0001F1F2\U0001F1F5"

15. Kotlin

val marianaFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF2\uD83C\uDDF5"

About the Northern Mariana Islands

Geography and Topography

Location and Geography

Northern Mariana Islands is a group of islands in the Pacific Ocean, located in the region of Micronesia. The islands are part of the United States, situated east of the Philippines and south of Japan. The geography of the Northern Mariana Islands includes:

  • Volcanic islands, such as Saipan, Tinian, and Rota
  • Beaches with coral reefs and lagoons
  • Mountainous terrain, including active and dormant volcanoes
  • Tropical rainforests and coastal plains

Northern Mariana Islands Map

Area and Population

The Northern Mariana Islands cover an area of approximately 464 square kilometers. As of 2023, the population is estimated to be around 47,000 people, primarily concentrated on the islands of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.

Demographics and Ethnic Composition

The Northern Mariana Islands have a diverse population, with ethnic groups that include:

  • Chamorro and Carolinian: the indigenous people of the islands
  • Asian communities, including Filipinos and Chinese
  • A small population of Caucasians and other ethnicities

Name and History

Origin of the Name “Northern Mariana Islands”

The name “Northern Mariana Islands” comes from Queen Mariana of Austria, for whom the islands were named in the 17th century. The islands were administered by Spain, Germany, and Japan before becoming a U.S. territory after World War II.

History

The history of the Northern Mariana Islands is shaped by indigenous cultures, European colonization, and American administration. Key historical events include:

  • Spanish colonization in the 16th century, introducing Catholicism
  • German and Japanese control in the 19th and early 20th centuries
  • The Battle of Saipan in 1944 during World War II, which led to U.S. control
  • The establishment of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands in political union with the U.S. in 1978

Government and Politics

Capital

Saipan is the capital of the Northern Mariana Islands and serves as the center of government and commerce for the territory.

Government and Politics

The Northern Mariana Islands operates as a commonwealth in political union with the United States. The government is divided into three branches: the executive, led by the Governor, the legislative, and the judicial. The commonwealth has a non-voting delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives.

Values and Culture

Key cultural values in the Northern Mariana Islands include respect for family, tradition, and communal responsibility. The islands are known for their strong sense of community and cultural pride, especially in indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian heritage.

Religion

Christianity is the dominant religion in the Northern Mariana Islands, with Roman Catholicism being the most widely practiced faith. There are also smaller communities practicing Protestantism and other faiths.

Holidays

Major public holidays in the Northern Mariana Islands include:

  • Constitution Day on March 24
  • Commonwealth Day on January 8
  • Traditional U.S. holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas

Demographics and Society

Language

The official languages of the Northern Mariana Islands are English, Chamorro, and Carolinian. English is used for government and education, while Chamorro and Carolinian are spoken in daily life by the indigenous population.

Society and Sports

The Northern Mariana Islands have a strong emphasis on sports and outdoor activities. Popular sports include baseball, soccer, and basketball, reflecting both American influence and regional interests.

Safety

The Northern Mariana Islands are generally safe for residents and visitors, with low crime rates. The U.S. and local governments work to maintain public safety and law enforcement.

Economy and Currency

Economy

The economy of the Northern Mariana Islands is primarily driven by tourism, agriculture, and services. Key economic sectors include:

  • Tourism, especially visitors from Japan, Korea, and China
  • Agriculture, including tropical fruits and vegetables
  • Textile and garment manufacturing

Currency

The official currency of the Northern Mariana Islands is the U.S. Dollar (USD), symbolized by “$” and subdivided into 100 cents.

Culture and Arts

Culture and Arts

The culture of the Northern Mariana Islands reflects a blend of indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian traditions with Spanish, Japanese, and American influences. Local music, dance, and traditional arts are central to the islands’ cultural identity.

Cuisine

The cuisine of the Northern Mariana Islands features a mixture of local and international influences, with popular dishes including:

  • Kelaguen: A Chamorro dish made from marinated meat, seafood, or chicken
  • Red Rice: A staple of Chamorro meals, colored with annatto seeds
  • Tinian Hot Pepper: A spicy condiment unique to the region

National Anthem

The national anthem of the Northern Mariana Islands is “Gi Talo Gi Halom Tasi,” which translates to “In the Middle of the Sea.”

Infrastructure and Transportation

Transportation

The Northern Mariana Islands have a network of roads connecting major towns on the islands, with ferry services and air travel linking the main islands. Saipan International Airport is the major hub for international travel.

Time Zone

The Northern Mariana Islands are located in the Chamorro Time Zone (UTC+10).

Web and Phone Code

The Northern Mariana Islands’ internet country code is “.mp,” and its international dialing code is +1 (670).

Northern Mariana Islands: Things to See and Do

The Northern Mariana Islands offer beautiful landscapes, rich history, and cultural experiences for visitors. Here are some of the top things to see and do:

Explore Historical Sites

The Northern Mariana Islands are home to several historical landmarks from World War II and beyond.

  • American Memorial Park: A tribute to American forces who fought in the Pacific during World War II.
  • Last Command Post: A Japanese WWII site on Saipan.

Enjoy Beaches and Water Sports

The islands offer pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, perfect for snorkeling, diving, and water activities.

  • Managaha Island: A small island near Saipan, known for snorkeling and beach activities.
  • Ladder Beach: A secluded beach on Saipan with unique limestone formations.

Savor Local Cuisine

Experience the distinct flavors of Chamorro and Carolinian cuisine at local restaurants and food markets.

Explore Saipan’s Nature

Take in the natural beauty of the islands through hiking and exploring scenic viewpoints.

  • Banzai Cliff: A dramatic oceanfront cliff offering stunning views and historical significance.
  • Mount Tapochau: The highest peak in the Northern Mariana Islands, providing panoramic views of the surrounding islands.