Do you know the definition of “vexillology?” If you overheard a discussion between two vexillologists (and we’re sure there are at least two of them) it would likely sound like a conversation in some strange alien language. Well, hold on to your seat, folks--because we’re about to give you a lesson in vexillology, the scientific study of flags.
Topics: American flag, flag facts, flag terms, flag repair, U.S. flag, flag history, USA flag, flag parts, flag anatomy, gonfalon, vexillology
Perhaps no symbol is more iconic than the eerie skull and crossbones of a Jolly Roger flag or pirate flag as it is often referred to. There is more to this infamous image than meets the eye; for the flag of a pirate was far more complex than what popular culture portrays. Here's some interesting flag facts and trivia about pirate flags that you might not know!
The pirate flag was not flown at all times. Pirate ships would fly flags of other nations to trick incoming vessels, and when the ships were close enough, only then would the crew raise their Jolly Roger as a warning to surrender.
Can you imagine a flag being so influential and feared that a person could be sentenced to death just by owning one? During the Golden Age of Piracy, simply owning a pirate flag was illegal. Since there was no reason for someone who wasn't a pirate to own the flag, the individual in question would be assumed a pirate, a crime for which the punishment was death.
Early versions of pirate flags were actually solid red or black. Privateers would traditionally fly a red flag to let incoming ships know they were not associated with the Royal Navy. Since many of these privateers eventually became pirates, it was only natural that they would choose to keep the red flag. Pirates were known to use red flags as a sign that they would show no mercy to their enemies.
Black flags, on the other hand, were a more welcoming sight to the pirates' victims. Although being attacked by pirates was never a good thing, a black flag signified that the pirates would allow their victims a peaceful surrender.
We're all familiar with the skull and crossbones, but did you know there were multiple renditions of pirate flags? Almost every pirate ship had a unique flag design suited to the captain's particular taste, and it was extremely rare for two pirates to have the same flag. With the most common symbols being skulls and skeletons, other popular themes were blood, swords, and hourglasses (symbolizing the enemy's incoming death). All struck fear in their victims, making them more likely to surrender their booty.
Whether you're a swashbuckling pirate or a landlubber in search of your own iconic, customized flag, don't hesitate to contact us at Accent Banner to create your own designs and request a free quote!
Topics: flag facts, flag trivia, pirate flags
Vexillology is the study of history, symbolism, origins, and uses of flags as well as any general interest in flags and what their history, symbolism, and meaning is to the people who live in that specific area of the world. the word vexillology comes from the synthesis of the Greek word vexillum which means "flag" and the Greek suffix -logia which means "study". This makes the world vexillology which means "study of the flags".
Since this field of study was established there has been a various vexillological association that has popped up around the world where people are interested in studying the history, emblems, and flags that have meant so much to so many people from various parts of the world for so long. One such vexillological association is The UK's National Flag Charity which is entirely funded by member's subscriptions to the association and this is currently the largest membership-based flag organization in the world with members hailing from all 6 inhabited continents.
The society's goal is to educate people about the important roles that flags play in societies all around the world. The UK's National Flag Charity was founded on St. George's Day which was 23 April 1971. The Flag Institute is proud to maintain until this very day that it has the largest national registry of flags registered anywhere in the UK both on a national and on a regional level.
*Example of the subtle history that's included in a flag - like this Portuguese National Flag.
Anyone can be a registered member and will receive a quarterly publication called the Flagmaster and are also invited to attend meetings held by the UK's National Flag charity which is held at various locations throughout the UK. The UK's National Flag Charity is also proud to provide vexillological services to HM Government and many other UK organizations as well as others around the world including the United Nations. Our offered services to these organizations include advising on uses of flags, designing new flags, and collecting information about flags that already exist around the world.
For more flag facts and information take a look at our other blog posts. To create a custom flag or banner for your own home or business contact one of our flag specialists to receive a free quote. A member of our team can talk you through the process of creating your own custom banner or flag.
Topics: flag facts, flag history, vexillology