If you go on vacation or even live in Britain, a few things are not missing from the street scene: typical red telephone booths, cars driving on the left and, of course, the Union Jack. This flag is the icon of the United Kingdom, but what is its history? Find out everything you need to know about this famous icon here.
Three flags in one
The first version of the Union Jack was created in 1606, with England's St. George's Cross pasted on top of Scotland's blue and white flag. This flag did not change again until 1801, when Ireland also became part of the United Kingdom. The red andreas cross symbolized Ireland, so this cross also earned a place on the flag. The end result is a flag that incorporates three national flags, making the unity of the country clearly visible.
Where is Wales?
The United Kingdom is big, so it is not surprising that English is a truly global language. But when you look at the flag of this country, one important part is missing: Wales. That's because Wales was part of England much earlier, as far back as 1535. That is why you do not see the famous dragon of Wales on the flag, but only the St. George's Cross that symbolizes united England and Wales.
Union Jack or Union Flag?
The flag of the United Kingdom is most popularly known as the Union Jack, but actually this is not correct. The English word "jack" is the name for a small flag that you attach to a ship. So it is not the same as a large national flag, which is why Union Jack is not actually the correct name. Officially, you should call it the Union Flag. Nevertheless, the British certainly also know what you mean when you talk about the Union Jack.
From royal flag to national flag
England has a lot of historical celebrities, from Shakespeare to Churchill, but the English royal family is still world famous. For a long time, the Union Jack was a true royal flag, intended only for the palaces, carriages and boats of royalty. Over the years, the flag became a true symbol of the United Kingdom, forcing the country to change direction in 1908. The Union Jack was then given the status of an official national flag, also giving citizens the chance to express their love for their country with the flag.
When will you see the Union Jack?
While visiting England, Scotland, Northern Ireland or Wales, you will encounter the Union Jack in several places. For example, many government buildings hang out the flag every day, and the royal family is also still proud of the Union Jack. Therefore, this flag hangs out in every palace where the Queen is present at the time, including the famous Buckingham Palace in London. If there is a major royal holiday, such as the Queen's birthday or a royal wedding, the streets of the United Kingdom are littered with Union Jacks.
Respect for the flag
In the United Kingdom, as in many other countries, it is true that you must respect the national flag. Therefore, there are rules to honor the flag in the best way possible. These include never hanging the flag under another flag, not using it as a table runner and certainly not sitting on it. It is customary to take the Union Jack down again after sunset, unless you light it with a spotlight. Also, of course, hang it right side up, with the wide white diagonal stripe at the top in the upper left corner.
Well prepared for the United Kingdom?
During our intensive day camp for learning English, you will not only discover the meaning behind the Union Jack, the flag of the UK, but you will also be immersed in the English language and culture. The Union Jack, with its unique amalgamation of the flags of England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, reflects the diversity of the United Kingdom. At our camps, we encourage you to embrace these different amalgamations while learning English. Through engaging language classes, interactive activities and cultural outings, you will not only become more proficient in English, but also gain a deeper understanding of the rich history and traditions this flag represents.
