Why are most flags red, white, blue?

Historically, a majority of flags are in red, white and blue, why is that?

The prevalence of these colors can be primarily attributed to  to two main reasons; practical considerations and historical influences.

Practical considerations

When the flags of countries like France, the United States, and the United Kingdom were decided; industrial color dyes were not available. Thus, due to cost, they resorted to choosing combinations of red, white and, and blue.

The emergence of industrial dyes later on permitted other colors; such as yellow, orange, and green to be used more widely in flags.

The Dutch flag used to be originally orange, white and blue, but was changed later in the 17th century to become red, white, and blue; as dyes of the original colors faded over time.

At that time – red, white, and blue dyes were affordable and easy to produce, making these colors accessible for flags. Their bold contrast also ensures visibility from a distance, a critical factor in military and maritime use.

Historical influence

Colonial history and revolutions popularized these colors. For example:

The French Revolution and its ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity spread the tricolor pattern to other nations.

Former colonies of Britain, such as Australia and New Zealand, incorporated the red, white, and blue of the Union Jack into their flags.

The Netherlands, with its historic red, white, and blue flag, inspired similar designs globally.

The meaning of these colors

Red often symbolizes valor, sacrifice, and revolution. It reflects the struggles for independence or bravery in battle.

White typically represents peace, purity, or honesty, emphasizing ideals of unity and fresh beginnings.

Blue conveys justice, perseverance, and loyalty, often associated with sovereignty and freedom.

The three colors dominate national flags globally, and are present in 77 percent, 73 percent, and 53 percent –respectively– of all flags.