Each country has its own national symbolism, which is a distinction and tells something about it. These are flags, hymns, colors, seals, emblems, coats of arms, mottos and much more. This article will focus on England, and more specifically on its flag, which is unique and noteworthy in its own way.
Union of three
What the flag of England looks like, everyone knows, even one who has not studied English and is generally far from it. The official name of England is the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. And the beautiful flag of this state is called the "Union Jack", which means "united flags." Why is that?
The fact is that the United Kingdom includes three historical regions of the United Kingdom: England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Each of them has its own flag, the elements of which are “folded” into the common banner of Great Britain, which symbolizes their union.
The history of the flag of England begins in 1603. It was then that Jacob, king of Scotland, received at his disposal the English throne. Despite the fact that both of these states remained independent, an alliance was concluded between them. And in 1606, a new symbol of this association was approved: the Scottish flag was placed on the flag of England.
Initially, it was used only on military and merchant ships. But since 1707, when both kingdoms united into one - the Kingdom of Great Britain, this flag has become a symbol of the new state. Then, many years later, in 1801, Ireland became part of England. Then a new flag was created, which added the symbol of the Irish. It is in this form that it exists today.
Flag of England
The main component of the British flag is a straight red cross on a white background. It is called the "cross of St. George" (St. George). He is considered the patron saint of the English since the Middle Ages. According to legend, during the troubled years of the Crusades, where the legionnaires of England were especially distinguished by their courage, St. George became their guardian and keeper of the shores of Misty Albion.
By the way, much later, St. George the Victorious was recognized as the patron of the Russian people.
Flags of Scotland and Ireland
The Scottish banner depicts a white diagonal cross on a blue background. It is a symbol of St Andrew, the patron saint and protector of Scotland. In Russia, this cross is called the "St. Andrew", and it personifies St. Andrew the First-Called, the intercessor of all Christians. This banner was mainly used on English ships.
Irish symbolism is similar to the flag of England, only with a diagonal red cross. This is a symbol of the patron saint of the Irish - St. Patrick. He was considered an intercessor of Catholics and missionaries.
An interesting detail: the flag of the United Kingdom contains the symbolism of historical areas, but it does not have the emblem of Wales (Welsh dragon). There are still disputes about this, but they have not yet reached an acceptable option for everyone. Although some consider this to be discrimination, the flag of England still remains traditional and unchanged since 1801, when it was approved.