The British Flag
The design of the flag of England dates back to at least 1603. The flag combines the characteristics of the three constituent countries of Great Britain:
- England
- Scotland
- Northern Ireland
A royal decree from 12 April 1606 said that a new flag should be used to show the royal union between England and Scotland.
As soon as the Acts of Union were signed in 1707, the flag became the flag of the Kingdom of Great Britain.
The current design of the Union Flag was created on December 1, 1801. The flag contains three crosses: one large cross and two smaller crosses.
The flag, made in 1938, has a lion on a pair of crossed blades and the Crown of St. Edward on a red field. This ensign may be used when regimental flags and the Union Jack do not suit the occasion.
What Does the British Flag Symbolize?
The British flag symbolizes the union between the kingdoms of England, Scotland and Ireland.
The flag represents elements of three previous national flags:
