The Flag of The United Kingdom

The Flag of The United Kingdom

General information The Union Flag is the symbol of the United Kingdom. The colours of the UK are red, white and blue. It has got three crosses that are from each nation of the United Kingdom except for Whales. The flag is on every government building on certain special days and holidays.

History In 1603, James VI of Scotland inherited the English and Irish thrones (as James I), thereby uniting the crowns of England, Scotland and Ireland in a personal union.

History On 12 April 1606, a new flag represented the union between England and Scotland. The flag of England (known as St George's Cross), and the flag of Scotland (known as St Andrew's Cross), were joined together, forming the flag of Great Britain and first union flag.

History The Act of Union 1800 united the Kingdom of Ireland and the Kingdom of Great Britain to form the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. The new design added a red saltire, the cross of Saint Patrick, for Ireland.

Use in other flags The Union Flag is on the flags of some Commonwealth nations, such as Australia and New Zealand.

Use in other flags It is also on the flags of Hawaii, British Columbia and many other countries.