Flag, Royal Union (Union Jack)

The current “maple leaf” national flag of Canada stands out both at home and abroad as one of the most striking and recognizable symbols representing Canada.

Flag, Royal Union (Union Jack) - The Royal Union Flag of 1801 to 1965While the quest for a national flag for Canada dates to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the flag known today emerged from major social transformations during the 1950s and 1960s in the lead up to the 100th anniversary of Confederation in 1967.

Several different flags were used in Canada before the current national flag. Since the early European presence on Canadian soil, the flags of the European homelands, such as France, were displayed. The British North America flags used in colonial Canada showcased ties to the British Empire. Both before and after Confederation in 1867, Canada used the United Kingdom’s Royal Union Flag, known as the “Union Jack.”

It is a red, white, and blue flag which combines the Crosses of St. George (England), St. Andrew (Scotland), and St. Patrick (Ireland). Initially the Union Flag was called a “jack” only when it was flown at the bowsprit of British naval vessels (A bowsprit is a long spar or pole that extends from the front of a sailing vessel.), but it was commonly called the Union Jack by the late 17th century. Today either name is acceptable.

This United Kingdom flag is flown on land for government and military purposes. At sea it serves as a flag for the Royal Navy. The British general public uses it unofficially as a civil flag. The Royal Union Flag was used across British North America and in Canada even after Confederation (1867) until 1965.

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