On August 22, our country celebrates National Flag Day, established by the decree of the President of Russia on August 20, 1994, "On National Flag Day of the Russian Federation." Today, we pay tribute to Russia's official state symbol, which, along with the coat of arms and anthem, represents the nation's sovereignty and independence, affirming the continuity of many generations of the country's multinational people. The history of the Russian tricolor spans more than three centuries. Its creator is considered to be Peter the Great, who in 1705 issued a decree that "on all merchant ships," the white-blue-red banner must be raised. However, the flag gained official status only in 1896, on the eve of the coronation of Nicholas II. There is no official interpretation of the colors of the Russian flag. However, it is commonly believed that white symbolizes purity, independence, and peace; blue stands for faith, loyalty, and justice; and red represents courage, strength, and bravery. Today, the tricolor has become an integral part of our lives as a symbol of Russian statehood, unity of the people, their loyalty to the Motherland, and readiness to defend national interests.