The National Flag

The Union Flag or Union Jack, is thenational flag of the United Kingdom. It is so called because it is acombination of the crosses of the three countries united under one Sovereign –the kingdoms of England and Wales, of Scotland and of Northern Ireland.

England –the flag of England is the cross of St. George, which is a red cross on a whiteground dating from the time of Crusades (十字军东征). St.George was a brave soldier who protested against the Roman’s torture ofChristians and died for his beliefs. He is the patron saint of England.

Scotland –the flag of Scotland is the cross saltier (X形十字，圣安德鲁十字)of St. Andrew, which is a diagonal (对角线的) white crosson a dark blue ground. This color was adopted for the general background of theUnion Jack.

Ireland –the cross saltier of St. Patrick is a diagonal red cross on a white background.

After the Act of Union of Ireland withEngland (and Wales) and Scotland on January 1st, 1801, the UnionFlag was created and has been flown ever since then.

However, we have mentioned that there are fourmajor parts in the UK, and the Union Jack combines the three crosses ofEngland, Scotland and Northern Ireland, where is Wales? Is that Wales does nothave its own flag? The answer is no. This is the flag of wales, the flag of St.David and this is another version. Both are very special in color and design,but is it because the flags are too special for Union Jack? The answer is alsono. In 1535, Wales was conquered by England and had been part of England sincethen. The first version of Union Jack was designed in 1606. At that time, Waleswas recognized as part of England, so the first version of Union Flag didn’thave any element related to Wales. At present, Wales is acknowledged as one thefour major parts of the United Kingdom. And after Brexit, Scotland shows verystrong will to stay in the European Union. Some people consider this as a goodchance to change the national flag and have designed some new ones with orwithout Scotland. I have to say these flags are really interesting to look at.However, none of those have been proved yet.