Canadian Symbols
Canada's most recognizable symbols are tied to land, heritage, and the Crown.
The flag
The National Flag of Canada — red and white with a stylized 11-point red maple leaf at its centre — was raised for the first time over Parliament Hill on February 15, 1965. February 15 is now National Flag of Canada Day. The red-white-red pattern was set out by King George V in 1921 as Canada's official colours.
Historic emblems
Long before the modern flag, Canada used several Crown-derived symbols: - The Royal Union Flag (Union Jack) — still flown on occasions to mark Canada's membership in the Commonwealth. - The fleur-de-lys — adopted by King Louis VII in the 12th century, now the flag of Quebec. - The Royal Coat of Arms of Canada — first granted by King George V in 1921; features the lion of England, the unicorn of Scotland, the harp of Ireland, the fleur-de-lys of France, and red maple leaves.
The maple leaf and the beaver
The maple leaf has served as Canadian emblem since at least the 1700s. It appeared on regimental flags in the 1800s, on the first Canadian coins, and now on the flag.
The beaver — symbol of the fur trade that built early Canada — was given official emblem status in 1975. Its image appears on the five-cent coin.
The Crown
Canada has been a constitutional monarchy for over 150 years. The Sovereign represents continuity, stability, and the rule of law. Crown imagery appears on the Coat of Arms, all currency, every police badge, court rooms, military insignia, and the names of national institutions like the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Royal Canadian Air Force.
The national anthem
O Canada was first performed in Quebec City on June 24, 1880, with French lyrics by Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier and music by Calixa Lavallée. The English lyrics were written by Robert Stanley Weir in 1908. The song was proclaimed the official national anthem in 1980. God Save the King is the Royal Anthem of Canada and is played in the Sovereign's presence.
Canadian sports
- Hockey — the official winter sport; a defining part of Canadian culture. The Stanley Cup, awarded since 1893, is one of the oldest trophies in professional sport.
- Lacrosse — the official summer sport, adapted from a First Nations game.
- Canadian football, curling, soccer, basketball (invented by Canadian James Naismith in 1891), figure skating, and skiing all have deep traditions.
Other national emblems
- The national horse — the Canadian Horse, a breed descended from horses sent by King Louis XIV in the 1660s.
- The national tree — the maple.
- The national sport for the Yukon — dog mushing!
Honours and decorations
The Victoria Cross — Canada's highest military honour — recognizes the most conspicuous bravery. The Order of Canada, established in 1967, recognizes outstanding achievement in any field. Three levels exist: Companion, Officer, and Member.