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Sao Paulo Flag: Meaning and History

Embroidered flag patch — Sao Paulo

History of the flag

The São Paulo flag was designed in 1888 and represents the paulista identity. It was conceived even before the proclamation of the Republic of Brazil (1889).

It came close to becoming the flag of Brazil, but was rejected by the founders because it was too much a part of their identity.

What do the elements of the flag mean?

  • The map of Brazil affirms the central role of the state of São Paulo within the country. The stars represent the cardinal points, symbolizing universality.

  • The black and white stripes, along with the red of the canton, represent the country's main ethnic groups (whites, blacks and Indians).

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