The flag of Samoa consists of two horizontal bands: a red upper half and a blue lower half. In the upper left corner (the canton), there are five white stars, arranged in the shape of the Southern Cross constellation. This constellation is significant as it is visible in the night sky over Samoa and other parts of the Southern Hemisphere. Red represents the courage, bravery, and freedom of the Samoan people. Blue symbolizes the sky, ocean, and the country’s journey towards peace and prosperity. The five stars represent the four main islands of Samoa, with the fifth star representing the nation's sovereignty and unity. The flag was adopted in 1949, after Samoa gained self-governance from New Zealand. It reflects the nation's pride in its cultural heritage and its connection to the Southern Hemisphere.