Union Jack Flag

Color illustration of the Union Jack Flag of the United kingdom.

The Union Jack is considered to be the most important British flag and is flown all over the United Kingdom. The flag was first developed in 1606 and combined the Crosses of St. George of England and St. Andrew of Scotland. In 1801, it incorporated the Crosses of St. Patrick of Ireland. The Union Flag is initially called a jack when flown at the bowsprit of British naval vessels. But by the end of the 17th century, it was dubbed the Union Jack. On land, the flag is flown for military and government purposes, and at sea, it represents the Royal Navy. Today, the public uses it as an unofficial civil flag.