August 22 is a significant day in Russia as it is celebrated as the Day of the State Flag of the Russian Federation. This holiday was established by a decree of the President of the Russian Federation on August 20, 1994, to commemorate the reinstatement of the white-blue-red flag as the official symbol of Russia on August 22, 1991.
The Russian tricolor, consisting of white, blue, and red horizontal stripes, has a long and rich history dating back to 1668 when it was first raised on the Russian warship “Oryol” under the reign of Peter the Great. The emperor later mandated that all Russian merchant ships fly the tricolor, which he himself designed and determined the order of the stripes.
The tricolor was officially designated as the sole state flag of Russia in 1896, just before Nicholas II’s coronation. However, after the 1917 Revolution, the state symbol of the RSFSR and later the USSR, was a red flag. It wasn’t until August 22, 1991, that the tricolor was reinstated as the official symbol of Russia by an extraordinary session of the Supreme Soviet of the RSFSR.
The colors of the Russian flag do not have an official interpretation, but it is commonly believed that white represents peace, purity, innocence, and perfection; blue symbolizes faith and loyalty; and red stands for energy, strength, and the blood shed for the Fatherland.
On this day, Russians across the country celebrate their national flag with pride and patriotism. It is a day to reflect on the history and symbolism of the tricolor and to honor the sacrifices made for the country. Happy Russian Flag Day to all!
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