The flag of Afghanistan has had more changes since the start of the 20th century than has that of any other country in the world. Afghanistan has had 20 different flags since the first flag when the Hotaki dynasty which made Afghanistan independent was established in 1709.
The current flag was adopted by the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in 2004. This flag is similar to the one flown in Afghanistan during the monarchy between 1930 and 1973. The difference is the addition of the shahadah at the top of the coat of arms (seen in yellow) in the center. This flag consists of three stripes of the colors black, red, and green. This has been present on most flags of Afghanistan in the last twenty years. The center emblem is the classical emblem of Afghanistan with a mosque with its mihrab facing Mecca.
Current Flag of Afghanistan
Historical flags
| Year of Use | Flag | Government |
|---|---|---|
| 1709–1738 |  |
Hotak dynasty |
| 1747–1842 |  |
Durani Empire |
| 1826–1880 | No official flag during this period. | Emirate of Afghanistan |
| 1880–1901 |  |
Emirate of Afghanistan |
| 1901–1919 |  |
Emirate of Afghanistan |
| 1919–1926 |  |
Emirate of Afghanistan |
| 1926–1928 |  |
Kingdom of Afghanistan |
| 1928 |  |
Kingdom of Afghanistan |
| 1928–1929 |  |
Kingdom of Afghanistan |
| 1929 |  |
Kingdom of Afghanistan |
| 1929–1930 |  |
Kingdom of Afghanistan |
| 1930–1973 |  |
Kingdom of Afghanistan |
| 1973–1974 |  |
Republic of Afghanistan |
| 1974–1978 |  |
Republic of Afghanistan |
| 1978–1978 |  |
Democratic Republic of Afghanistan |
| 1978–1980 |  |
Democratic Republic of Afghanistan |
| 1980–1987 |  |
Democratic Republic of Afghanistan |
| 1987–1992 |  |
Republic of Afghanistan |
| 1992−1992 |  |
Islamic State of Afghanistan |
| 1992 –1996 |  |
Islamic State of Afghanistan / Northern Alliance |
| 1996–1997 |  |
Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan |
| 1997–2001 |  |
Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan |
| 2001–2002 |  |
Islamic State of Afghanistan |
| 2002–2004 |  |
Transitional Administration |
| 2004–present |  |
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan |
