User:Jeronimo/Sandbox
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The national flag of the Netherlands has three equal horizontal bands coloured red (top), white and blue. The flag has his its origins in the late 16th century when it was used by the Dutch in their revolt against the Spanish, better known as the Eighty Years' War. The colours ā with orange used instead of red ā were taken from the coat of arms of William I of Orange, leader of the Dutch revolt. The orange band gradually became red, although this was not officially confirmed until 1937.
Formal use of the flag is strictly regulated; the specifics were last modified in 2003. The flag is only flown on national holidays, birthdays of members of the royal family, and on special occasions such as the visit of a foreign head of state. These regulations do not apply to private use of the flag, but citizens are advised and requested to follow these as well.