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Flag |
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The inspiration and design for the Republic of Ecuador's flag
came from the well
known forerunner of South American Independence, General Francisco Miranda. It was then
adopted by the Republics of Ecuador, Colombia, and Venezuela. These three countries formed
a confederation from 1822 until 1830, the year in which they each became separate nations.
The flag has remained the same for the three sovereign states with only slight differences
distinguishing one flag from the others.
The Ecuadorian flag has three horizontal
stripes which from the bottom up are red, blue, and yellow. The yellow stripe is twice as
wide as the red and blue ones. The symbolism of the colors is as follows: Red stands for
the blood shed by the soldiers and martyrs of the independence battles. Blue represents
the color of the sea and sky. Yellow symbolises the abundance and fertility of the crops
and land.
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Coat of Arms |
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The Coat of Arms of Ecuador
was given to the country at the National Congress of 1900. In the shape of a heart, the Coat
of Arms rests on a bundle of sheaves which is the Republic's insignia for dignity. Four
flags adorn the outer part of the Coat of Arms. The palm and laurel branches between them
symbolise victory. The condor perched at the top offers the country shelter and protection
under its outstretched wings and stands ready to strike out against any enemy.
Aries, Taurus, Gemini, and Cancer represent parts of the Zodiac. The Sun takes its
place in the middle of these signs corresponding to March, April, May, and June, months
which are historically significant to Ecuadorians.
In the background is the majestic Chimborazo mountain rising to a lovely blue sky.
The highest in the Andes Range, this mountain unites with the Guayas River, formed from
its snows, to give us the brotherhood of the Sierra and the Coast.
In the lower foreground, the steamboat "Guayas" is seen crossing the wide
river. This boat, which began service on October 9, 1841, was constructed by Vicente
Rocafuerte and was the first of its kind in Ecuador and South America. The mast consists
of a rod with two wings at the top and two snakes encircling it. This is the sign of the
caduceus which symbolises accord and trade
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National Anthem of Ecuador |
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