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United Kingdom Flag: Meaning and History

Embroidered flag patch — United Kingdom

The flag of the United Kingdom, called the ‘Union Jack’, represents the union of the three unified flags under the same crown.

History of the flag

The British flag traces its origins back to 1606.

The current banner was adopted in 1801 when the kingdoms of Great Britain and Ireland united to create the United Kingdom.

What do the elements of the flag mean?

  • St George's Cross (England, Wales).

  • St Andrew's Cross (Scotland).

  • St Patrick's Cross (Ireland).

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