
Delve into the story behind one of the world’s most recognizable symbols. This work traces how the red cross of St George, the white saltire of St Andrew, and the red saltire of St Patrick were woven together, revealing the political and constitutional milestones that shaped each addition. Clear explanations link the flag’s design to the evolving union of England, Scotland, and Ireland, making the fabric of the Union Jack a vivid lesson in history.
The book expands beyond the central emblem, exploring the flags of the former colonies, the early American ensigns, and the distinct ensigns adopted by overseas dominions. Detailed illustrations and nine coloured plates demonstrate correct proportions and construction, while an extensive index helps readers locate facts quickly. Practical notes on proper flag‑making aim to correct common misconceptions still seen today.
Revised for a new generation, the text incorporates fresh research on later constitutional developments and the emergence of daughter‑parliament flags. Teachers and enthusiasts will find a concise, well‑illustrated guide that brings the symbolism of each banner to life, inviting listeners to see flags as living records of a nation’s journey.
Language
en
Duration
~7 hours (408K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Brian Coe and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive/Canadian Libraries)
Release date
2014-04-26
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
1846–1913
A Canadian writer and historian with close ties to the Great Lakes, he wrote lively books about ships, waterways, and the history around them. His work captures a period when sail, steam, and local memory were all changing fast.
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