Adopted in 1844. The flag of Turkey is red with a vertical white crescent moon (the closed portion is toward the hoist side) and white five-pointed star centered just outside the crescent opening. The flag colors and designs closely resemble those on the banner of the Ottoman Empire, which preceded modern-day Turkey. The crescent moon and star serve as insignia for the Turks, as well as being traditional symbols of Islam. According to legend, the flag represents the reflection of the moon and a star in a pool of blood of Turkish warriors. (ref: CIA World Factbook)