The Dominican Republic flag was officially adopted on November 6, 1844.
The blue and red are from the flag of Haiti, which once controlled the Dominican Republic. The white cross is symbolic of faith.
The centered coat of arms appears on the flag for national and state use only. That coat of arms displays an open bible topped by a gold cross. Above the arms the Trinitarian motto is displayed, Dios, Patria, Libertad. (God, Country, Freedom)