True or False? The points of the maple leaf on the Canadian flag represent the provinces and territories.
In the years since the adoption of the current Canadian flag, many claim that the number of points (11) on the maple leaf it features have special significance, such as; representing each of the Canadian provinces and territories (one for each of the provinces, and one for the territories); they represent ten provinces and one country, or; Canada’s eleven governments (ten provincial and one federal). However, none of the claims are true.
More By Accident Than By Intention
Though not the first to submit a similar design, Alan Beddoe, a former lieutenant-commander in the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve during the Second World War, was the graphic artist and heraldic expert who designed the first flag with a single maple leaf in the center and submitted it to the Flag Committee (created by Prime Minister Pearson that included George Bist, Alan Beddoe, Patrick Reid, George F. G. Stanley, John R. Matheson, Günter Wyszecki, Ken Donovan, and Joan O’Malley). However, the design that was selected as the Flag Committee’s recommendation isn’t quite the design that was ultimately adopted, for it bore a maple leaf with thirteen points. And the fact that the final version ended up as an eleven-point leaf was far more by accident than by intention.
Something Wrong With The Design
Hastily silk-screened, the original prototype had been hoisted up the flagpole at 24 Sussex Drive to greet then Prime Minister and Mrs. Pearson with their breakfast. But there was something wrong with the design. To figure out exactly what the problem was, and how to fix it, the committee met that evening at the headquarters of Patrick Reid, Director of the Canadian Government Exhibition Commission. Reid and his team were responsible for determining the precise parameters of the new National Flag of Canada.
Maybe It’s Too Busy
“Do you think maybe it’s too busy at the base?” Reid asked. “What would happen, for example, if you took away two of the four points?” So a member of Reid’s staff, Jacques St-Cyr, quickly modified the design and within an hour they had one that all approved of. They took the refined design to the silk-screen shop late that night, and the first eleven point designs were produced and flown the next morning. Prime Minister Lester Pearson gave the new flag his blessing, and Cabinet endorsed the design soon after.
And The Answer Is
Therefore, the answer to whether or not the eleven points of the maple leaf on the Canadian flag represent the provinces and territories is true or false, is that it’s false.
10 interesting Facts About Canada:
1. Second Largest Country:
Canada is the second-largest country in the world by land area, covering approximately 9.98 million square kilometers.
2. Bilingualism:
Canada has two official languages, English and French, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage. French is primarily spoken in Quebec and parts of other provinces.
3. Natural Wonders:
The country is home to stunning natural attractions such as the Rocky Mountains, Niagara Falls, the Northern Lights, and the expansive boreal forests.
4. Cultural Diversity:
Canada is known for its cultural diversity and inclusivity, with a significant immigrant population contributing to its multicultural society.
5. Maple Syrup:
The country is the world’s largest producer of maple syrup, a natural sweetener made from the sap of sugar maple trees.
6. Hockey:
Ice hockey is the national sport and holds a special place in Canadian culture. The sport is widely followed and passionately played across the country.
7. Polar Bears:
Canada is home to approximately 60% of the world’s polar bear population. They can be found in regions like Churchill, Manitoba.
8. Tim Hortons:
The coffee and donut chain, Tim Hortons, is a cultural icon in Canada, known for its coffee and ‘Timbits’ (donut holes).
9. Universal Healthcare:
Canada has a publicly funded healthcare system that provides essential medical services to its citizens and permanent residents.
10. National Parks:
Canada boasts a rich collection of national parks and protected areas, offering breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
These are just a few highlights showcasing the diverse and unique aspects of Canada.
