Flag of Mexico
Colors
Meaning & Symbolism
Green represents the hope of the Mexican people and the independence movement. White symbolizes the unity and purity of national ideals. Red commemorates the blood of heroes who gave their lives for the homeland. The central coat of arms shows a golden eagle devouring a snake atop a prickly pear cactus, an image that according to Aztec legend indicated to the Mexica the place to found their city, Tenochtitlan.
History
The tricolor was adopted after independence in 1821. The current coat of arms dates from 1968. The colors originally represented the "Three Guarantees": religion, independence and union.
Curiosities
Very similar to Italy's flag, with the same colors but different shades. The coat of arms only appears on the government version; the civil one may not have it. The Aztec eagle is one of the oldest national symbols in the Americas.
