Adopted in 1962; The Algerian flag has two equal vertical bands of green (hoist side) and white, and a red, five-pointed star within a red crescent centered over the two-color boundary. The colors represent Islam (green), purity and peace (white), and liberty (red). The crescent and star are also Islamic symbols, but the crescent is more closed than those of other Muslim countries because the Algerians believe the long crescent horns bring happiness.