The Venezuelan flag was designed by Francisco de Miranda who was inspired by the German philosopher Goethe. In his book The Theory of Colors, Goethe expounds upon our perception of colors, giving them meaning and psychological connotation.

Miranda relates a late night conversation during which Goethe exclaimed, Your destiny is to create in your land a place where primary colors are not distorted.”

The Venezuelan flag consists of three bands: yellow signifying wealth, blue for independence from Spain, and red for courage. Alternately, the gold of America separated from bloody Spain, by the deep blue sea.

The flag originally had seven stars representing the seven Venezuelan provinces. The flag was first flown over Venezuelan soil at La Vela de Coro, on August 3, 1806.