French navigator. After service with the French in Canada during the Seven Years' War, he made the first French circumnavigation of the world in 176669 and the first systematic observations of longitude.
Several Pacific islands are named after him, as is the climbing plant bougainvillea.
Green expresses hope. White symbolizes peace. It is said that the saltire may have been based on the former flag of Belgian airline, Sabena. Red represents the blood shed in the struggle for independence. Effective date: 27 September 1982.