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Flag of Timor-Leste
flag of TEE-mor LEST-ay
Definitions
1
Flags ยท National
Uncommon
The national flag of Timor-Leste (East Timor), representing the sovereign nation in Southeast Asia that gained independence in 2002 after a long struggle against Indonesian occupation.
Used to represent Timor-Leste in international contexts, discussions about the country, or by Timorese people expressing national identity.
Just booked my trip to ๐น๐ฑ for next summer! Can't wait to explore Dili!
Travel announcement on Instagram
Congratulations to the athletes from ๐น๐ฑ competing in their fourth Olympic Games!
Sports commentary on Twitter
Symbolizes Timorese independence and sovereignty. The black triangle represents the colonial obscurantism, the yellow star stands for the light that guides, and the red background symbolizes the struggle for independence.
Evolution Timeline
2002
Flag officially adopted upon Timor-Leste's independence from Indonesia on May 20, 2002.
End of Indonesian occupation and UN transitional administration.
2015
Emoji version of flag introduced in Unicode 8.0, enabling digital representation.
Expansion of national flag emojis in Unicode standard.
Cultural Context
The flag was first used by FRETILIN, the Revolutionary Front for an Independent East Timor, during the independence movement against Indonesian occupation.
The country's dual name (Timor-Leste/East Timor) reflects its Portuguese colonial history, with 'Leste' being Portuguese for 'East'.
As one of the world's newest nations, the flag represents post-colonial identity formation and sovereignty in the digital age.
Regional Variations
Australia
Higher recognition in Australia due to geographic proximity and historical ties including Australian peacekeeping operations.
United States
Relatively low recognition in the US, where it's occasionally confused with other Southeast Asian flags.
Generational Usage
Gen_X: Limited usage primarily in formal contexts like news, education, or international relations discussions.
Gen_Z: Rarely used except in educational contexts or by those with specific interest in Southeast Asia or international relations.
Older: Minimal recognition or usage except among those with specific historical knowledge or connection to the region.
Millennials: Occasionally used in travel content, international development discussions, or political commentary about Southeast Asia.
Common Combinations
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Beaches or islands of Timor-Leste
Highlights Timor-Leste's developing tourism industry focused on pristine beaches and diving.
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Timorese coffee
References Timor-Leste's high-quality coffee exports, a significant part of the nation's economy.