A Symbol Of Unity And Independence

**The Fascinating History of the West Indies Federation Flag**

**A Symbol of Unity and Independence**

The flag of the West Indies Federation, a now-defunct entity, tells a captivating tale of unity and aspirations for independence. Adopted in 1958, it adorned the skies of 13 islands in the Caribbean Sea for a brief period until the federation's dissolution in 1962.

Designed by Jamaican artist Edna Manley, the flag boasted a vibrant blue field adorned with four narrow white stripes equally spaced apart. Dominating the center was a striking orange-gold circle that symbolized the sun, a beacon of hope and renewal for the newly formed federation. Each stripe represented one of the four main island groups: Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, and the Windward and Leeward Islands.

**A Legacy of Unity and Aspirations**

The West Indies Federation was a testament to the desire for unity and self-governance among the Caribbean islands. However, the dream was short-lived as internal divisions and challenges ultimately led to its collapse. Despite its brief existence, the federation's flag remains a poignant symbol of the aspirations and the shared history of these islands.