Turkey Flag: Meaning and History

The presence of the crescent moon on the Turkish flag is attributed to Osman I, the first Ottoman ruler.

Along with the star, this symbol represents Islam and is a sign of happiness, health and fertility. White embodies peace and purity, and red is the traditional color of the Ottoman Empire.

History of the flag

The Turkish flag was the first to feature the crescent moon as a religious symbol on its banner.

With the Islamic star added in 1793, the design of the national flag was adopted, and its definitive version saw the light of day in 1844.