Swedish Flag
Sweden was under the rule of Denmark until 1523, when King Gustav Vasa
began to work toward liberating Sweden so that it could be an
independent state.
Today's flag, which was adopted in 1906, is an off-center yellow cross
on a background of blue. The off-center cross is often called the
"Scandinavian cross," and is taken from the flag of Denmark.
Although the current flag wasn't instituted until just more than 100 years ago, it was used in some form or another for about four centuries before. It is thought that the flag's blue and yellow colors come from the national coat of arms, which originated in the 14th century. This coat of arms features three gold crowns on a blue field.
Today, Sweden's national flag day is celebrated on June 6, the same day that King Gustav Vasa, who was so integral to the country's independence, was elected in 1523.
Related Swedish Links
- Sweden Flag - description and illustration of the Swedish flag.