American artist Gilbert Baker who created the rainbow flag is recognized across the world as a symbol of gay pride.
Baker, who was 65, came up with the iconic eight-coloured banner for San Francisco's 1978 gay freedom day, a precursor to the modern pride festival, having taught himself to sew in his 20s.
The former soldier was deeply involved within the San Francisco LGBT rights movement and was a close friend of murdered activist and politician Harvey Milk.
The artist had died in his sleep at his home in New York on 30th March 2017.
Baker, born in Kansas in 1951, served for two years in the army, according to his website, and was stationed him in San Francisco just as the gay liberation movement was gathering momentum.
Gilbert Baker: Know More - Born: 2 June 1951, Chanute, Kansas, United States
- Died: 31 March 2017, New York City, New York, United States
- Residence: New York City, New York, United States
- Movies: Milk
