The colors red and white were popular in the Pacific long before the arrival of Europeans. The Tonga constitution (Nov. 4, 1875) established the flag, which was created by King George Tupou I with the advice of a missionary. The cross was chosen as a symbol of the widespread Christian religion, and the color red was related to the blood of Jesus.

Tonga Official name: Pule'anga Fakatu'i 'o Tonga (Tongan); Kingdom of Tonga (English). Form of government: constitutional monarchy with one legislative house (Legislative Assembly [30]). Head of state and government: King assisted by Privy Council. Population (1998): 97,900. Population projection: (2000) 98,500; (2010) 101,000. Natural increase rate per 1,000 population (1997): 21.2 (world avg. 15.7). Gross national product (1996): U.S.$175,000,000 (U.S.$1,790 per capita). Land use (1994): forest 11.1%; pasture 5.6%; agriculture 66.7%; other 16.6%.

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