The Cuban flag consists of five horizontal stripes: three blue and two white. The blue stripes represent the three departments of Cuba during the 19th century, while the white stripes symbolize the purity of the independence struggle. In the left corner, there is a red triangle that contains a white star. The triangle represents equality and the blood shed for independence, while the star symbolizes freedom. The flag was officially adopted on February 24, 1902, and is a significant national symbol for the people of Cuba.