There is usually sparse historical evidence and a lot of legends. Moreover, individuals may have their own interpretation of their national flag. The star and crescent are Muslim symbols, but also have a long pre-Islamic past in Asia Minor. The basic form of the national flag was apparently established in 1793 under Sultan Selim III, when the green flags used by the navy were changed to red and a white crescent and multipointed star were added. The five-pointed star dates from approximately 1844.
Many traditions explain the star and crescent symbol.
It is known that Diana was the patron goddess of Byzantium and that her symbol was a moon. Others refer to a dream of the first Ottoman Emperor in which a crescent and star appeared from his chest and expanded, presaging the dynasty's seizure of Constantinople. At least three other legends explain the flag. It might be that the construction is taken from the flag law which is quoted in full in the book. The above image is based on the construction sheet in the book, adapted slightly to make it better looking as digital image.