The Flag of El Salvador. Postcard

The flag of El Salvador was inspired by the flag of the Federal Republic of Central America, and by the flag of Argentina, the country that sent one of the first fleets to help consummate the independence of Central American republics from Spain. There are two versions of the flag, one containing the national coat of arms and the other the words "DIOS UNION LIBERTAD" (Spanish: God, Union, Liberty). The one bearing the coat of arms is used by the government and state organizations. The other version is used for civil purposes. Both flags have a 3:5 aspect ratio. From 1865 to 1912, a different flag was in use, with a field of alternating blue and white stripes and a red canton containing white stars. The actual blue and white stripes in flag are based on the importance of añil exports, añil was commonly used as a source for indigo dye.