The Jamaican national flag was first raised on Independence Day, August 6, 1962, signifying the birth of the nation. The flag brings to mind memories of past achievements and gives inspiration towards further success. It is flown on many triumphant occasions, showing the pride that Jamaicans have in their country and in the flag itself. The gold saltire divides the flag into four triangles. Two green, at the top and bottom, and two black, at the hoist and fly. The colours of the flag represent the island’s natural resources; gold represents the sun, while green is for agricultural wealth and hope, and the hardships are represented by black. Together, the colours symbolise the motto of the Jamaican nation, ‘Hardships thee are but the land is green and the sun shined’.