The Middle East: Bahrain and Qatar
As in Oman and other Gulf states, the original flag of Bahrain was the red banner of the Kharidjite sect. It was by the General Treaty of 1820 the British stipulated that Arab flags must have some white in them if they were not to be taken as pirate flags.
The various states of the ‘Pirate Coast’ then developed flags with differing white patterns on them. In Bahrain it was originally a plain vertical strip, but in 1932 the dividing line was serrated, possibly to distinguish the flag from those of its neighbors.
A flag for the Sheikh was also introduced and Sir Charles Belgrave, the Sheikh’s political adviser, designed the state emblem. Until 1971, when the country resumed complete independence, there was an oriental crown above the shield. The flag of the Sheikh is designed like the national, with bands of white along top and bottom edges.
Like the flag of Bahrain, to which Qatar was once subject, Qatar’s flag was originally plain red. It was adapted and now has unique proportions and an unusual color shade, which is said to derive from the way red pigment, made from local vegetable dyes, was modified by the fierce sun of the Persian Gulf. The shape and the shade are now official.
At one time the name of the state also appeared on the flag in white lettering, and red diamonds were placed on the white strip, but the plain flag has been in use since 1949. The emblem now depicts a local sailing boat and coast scene, flanked by two crossed swords. A while back, Qatar developed a set of flags for its armed forces.
Other flags used in today’s Qatar include their respective navy ensign and army flag. The navy ensign is blue with the navy emblem in color in the center. The army banner is white with the armed forces badge in color in the center.
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