Symbols in the Union Jack

The Union Jack symbolized the union of the royal dynasties of England, including Wales, and Scotland. In 1707 the flag became the official symbol of the newly created Kingdom of Great Britain.

St. Patrick's Cross

In 1801, Ireland was integrated into the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, and St. Patrick's cross--a red diagonal cross on a white field--was added to the Union Jack.

Colonial Emblems

The far-flung British Empire included colonies in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. When these colonies won their independence, the Union Jack disappeared from their new flags--in most cases.

The Commonwealth

Many colonies remained part of the British commonwealth even after achieving self-rule. The Union Jack remained a symbol of their political and commercial ties to the mother country.

The Union Jack Survives

The Union Jack has remained part of the national flags of Australia, New Zealand, Tuvalu and Fiji. It can also be seen in the flags of several Canadian provinces, including British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario and Newfoundland.

The Hawaiian Flag

It also makes up a portion of the state flag of Hawaii, adopted by the king of Hawaii after a British ship arrived in the islands flying the banner as a symbol of royal authority.

Source:

The Official Website of the British Monarchy: The Union Jack

Know Britain: The History and Meaning of the Union Jack

Flags of the World