Germany Flag: Meaning and History

The black-red-gold colors appeared as early as 1815 and were already present on the flag of the German Confederation.

History of the flag

The current flag was adopted in 1948 by the FRG (West Germany).

At the time of reunification with the GDR in 1989-1990, this flag was retained.

What do the elements of the flag mean?

• Black comes from the black eagle of the Holy Roman Empire.

• Red echoes the eagle’s beak and claws.

• The color gold is a symbol of wealth.