Before 1965, Canada predominantly used the Canadian Red Ensign, a flag that incorporated the Union Jack and the Canadian coat of arms. While widely recognized, it was often seen as a colonial relic, failing to represent Canada's burgeoning national identity and its evolving role on the international stage. This sentiment intensified after World War II, as Canada sought to assert its independence and multicultural character. Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson, among others, strongly believed that a truly distinctive national flag was essential to reflect Canada's sovereignty and unity, moving beyond symbols tied directly to its British heritage. The push for a new flag became a significant political and cultural aspiration.

The quest for a new flag ignited what became known as "The Great Flag Debate," a contentious period in Canadian politics. Prime Minister Pearson, advocating for a design featuring three red maple leaves on a white background with blue bars, encountered significant opposition. Many veterans and traditionalists fiercely defended the Red Ensign, viewing it as a symbol of Canada's wartime sacrifices and British ties. The debate polarized Parliament and the public, often along linguistic and regional lines, with passionate arguments on both sides about national identity and historical legacy. Pearson's minority government faced a critical challenge in finding a consensus.

To resolve the impasse, a multi-party parliamentary committee was established in September 1964. This committee was tasked with reviewing thousands of submissions from the public and experts, distilling them into potential designs. Key considerations included the use of the maple leaf, which had long been an unofficial Canadian emblem, and the national colours of red and white, proclaimed officially by King George V in 1921. The committee meticulously evaluated various combinations, ensuring any chosen design would be simple, easily recognizable, and represent all Canadians, free from specific ethnic or historical affiliations. Their goal was to find a unifying symbol.

After extensive deliberation, the parliamentary committee recommended a design featuring a single, stylized red maple leaf on a white square, flanked by two red bars. This design, primarily championed by George Stanley and inspired by the flag of the Royal Military College of Canada, was ultimately approved by Parliament and officially proclaimed by Queen Elizabeth II on January 28, 1965. The inaugural unfurling of the new National Flag of Canada took place on February 15, 1965, on Parliament Hill. Although initially met with mixed reactions, the elegant and distinct design quickly became a globally recognized symbol of Canada's independence, values, and diverse population.

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