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Union Flag
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Union Flag

flag of Great Britain
Also known as: Great Union
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Union Flag
Union Flag Union Flag (1606–1801), in which are combined the white-on-blue Cross of St. Andrew (for Scotland) and the red-on-white Cross of St. George (for England).

The Union Flag, often called the Union Jack, is the national flag of the United Kingdom. Its design evolved through acts of union between different parts of the British Isles. The current flag dates from January 1, 1801, and combines the crosses of St. George (England), St. Andrew (Scotland), and St. Patrick (Ireland). The red and white elements are bordered in white to adhere to heraldic principles, ensuring red does not directly touch the blue field. The Union Flag is a significant symbol flown worldwide by representatives of the UK and is incorporated into the flags of several Commonwealth nations and some sub-national entities.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
4 Britannica Sources
  1. flag of the United Kingdom
  2. flag of the United States of America
  3. Why Is the U.S. Flag Red, White, and Blue?
  4. Acts of Union: Uniting the United Kingdom

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