Flag of Great Britain

The flag of the United Kingdom, known as the Union Jack, is one of the most famous national symbols in the world. It combines elements of three different flags that symbolize the unity of the countries of the United Kingdom: England, Scotland and Ireland. This unique design has a long history that reflects the complex formation of British national identity.

History of the flag of Great Britain

The Union Jack has a rich history dating back to the late 16th century. It was created gradually, incorporating symbols from different parts of the kingdom.

The origin of the flag

• 1606: After the unification of England and Scotland under the rule of King James I, the first united flag was created. It consisted of two crosses:
  • The red cross of St. George (England) on a white field.
  • The white diagonal cross of St. Andrew (Scotland) on a blue background.
• 1801: After Ireland joined the United Kingdom, a red diagonal cross of St. Patrick was added to the flag. This is how the modern design of the Union Jack emerged.

Why the Union Jack?

The name “Jack” comes from a maritime tradition, as the flag was often used on ships. In modern usage, the term “Union Jack” refers to the flag in any context.

Modernity.

Today, the flag of Great Britain remains a symbol of unity, although not all the countries that make up the United Kingdom are represented on it (for example, Wales, which had its own flag before unification with England).

Colors of the flag of the United Kingdom

Meaning of the colors

The flag of Great Britain combines elements of three national symbols:

1. The Red Cross of St. George (England):
   • Symbolizes bravery and loyalty.
   • It is the main element of the English national flag.
2. White diagonal cross of St. Andrew (Scotland):
   • It represents the patron saint of Scotland.
   • It symbolizes faith and nobility.
3. Red diagonal cross of St. Patrick (Ireland):
   • Represents the patron saint of Ireland.
   • Symbolizes hope and unity.

The Union Jack is a symbol not only of the United Kingdom, but also of its historical colonies, many of which still have elements of British design in their flags.

Color codes

To accurately represent the flag, official colors in different systems have been approved:

1. Red:
   • RGB: (200, 16, 46)
   • HEX: #C8102E
   • CMYK: (0, 100, 77, 13)
   • Pantone: 186 C
2. Blue:
   • RGB: (1, 33, 105)
   • HEX: #012169
   • CMYK: (100, 98, 0, 43)
   • Pantone: 280 C
3. White:
   • RGB: (255, 255, 255)
   • HEX: #FFFFFF
   • CMYK: (0, 0, 0, 0)
   • Pantone: White

Format and proportions

Flag proportions

The official aspect ratio of the flag is 1:2, which means that the length of the flag is twice its height.

Flag design

The flag consists of three crosses superimposed on each other:

1. Ared straight cross of St. George in the center.
2. A white diagonal cross of St. Andrew with a lower blue background.
3. The red diagonal cross of St. Patrick is located on top of the white diagonal cross.

It is important to note that the flag is asymmetrical, so when hung upside down, it can be recognized as incorrectly positioned.

Interesting facts about the flag of Great Britain

1. The Union Jack is used in the design of many other flags, including those of Australia, New Zealand and Fiji.
2. Wales is not represented on the flag, as it was already part of England when the Union Jack was created.
3. The Union Jack is often used as a symbol of British culture and traditions and is a popular element in clothing and accessory design.

The Union Jack is a unique symbol that combines the rich history and diversity of the countries that make up the United Kingdom. It represents the unity, traditions and influence of the UK in the world. Today, this flag continues to be an important national symbol and a recognizable emblem of British heritage.