The flag of Pakistan consists of a dark green field with a white vertical stripe at the hoist (left) side. In the green field, there is a white crescent moon and a five-pointed star at the center. The green color symbolizes Islam, the majority religion of the country, and also represents prosperity and good fortune. The white stripe represents the religious minorities and their equal rights. The crescent moon and five-pointed star are symbols of progress, enlightenment, and the country's Islamic heritage. The flag was officially adopted on August 11, 1947, shortly before Pakistan gained independence from British rule.