Why is the symbol of Canada a maple leaf?

It is believed that this is not just a maple leaf, but a leaf of sugar maple-a tree that grows only in North America, where it is extracted from the famous maple syrup and sugar.

It was first used as a national symbol in 1965, when the canadian flag appeared in the form in which we are used to seeing it – a red maple leaf on a white background between two red stripes.

Before that, a symbol consisting of three small maple leaves was used. In General, the image of the maple leaf as a local symbol began in Canada in the XIX century, it was depicted on postage stamps, coins, etc.

About the unusual red color of the maple leaf on the canadian flag, there is a misconception that it is the color of maple in the fall. In fact, red is the national color of great Britain.

Canada is formally a constitutional monarchy governed by the Queen of great Britain through her Governor-General. In fact, all power in the country belongs to the canadian Parliament and the Prime Minister.