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Cookery has been practised since prehistoric times, becoming fairly sophisticated in the aristocratic societies of ancient civilizations. Professional cooks existed in medieval Europe, but cookery as a recognized art originated in 16th-century Italy and developed in 17th-century France. French pre-eminence in cooking remained unchallenged until the 1940s, when rapidly-increasing interest led to the rediscovery and appreciation of traditional cooking styles worldwide.
The blue star signifies the purity and honesty of the life of the country. The red star represents authority and law. Effective date: 4 June 1904.
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