The official flag of Norway which was designed by Fredrik Meltzer is composed of three colors. These colors include bright red, dark blue and white. The colors were influenced by French Tricolore which is known as a sign of liberty. The flags of the United States and the United Kingdom are also among the major influences of the design of the Norwegian flag. The dark blue color of the Norwegian flag is designed as a cross and bordered in white. The dark blue cross, which is known to be the cross of Sweden, and its white borders are then designed with a bright red background. Although the flag was already in use since 1821, it was officially hoisted in 1899. Until today, this Norwegian flag has been used as the national flag in different functions within the country and it continues to inspire the people within Norway.