Scotland Flag Meaning

Symbolism

History

1. 832 AD (Legend): According to legend, King Óengus of the Picts saw a white saltire cross against the blue sky before the Battle of Athelstaneford, leading to victory over the Angles.
2. 12th Century: The Saltire began appearing on Scottish seals and documents, establishing itself as Scotland's national symbol during the medieval period.
3. 1385: Scottish Parliament decreed that all Scottish soldiers should wear the white cross of Saint Andrew as identification in battle against English forces.
4. 1606: The Saltire was incorporated into the first Union Flag when King James VI of Scotland became James I of England, uniting the crowns.
5. 1707: Act of Union created the Kingdom of Great Britain, but the Saltire remained Scotland's distinctive national flag and symbol of identity.
6. 1999: Scottish Parliament reconvened after 292 years, with the Saltire flying prominently over the new devolved government building in Edinburgh.

Trivia

• The Saltire is considered one of the oldest national flags in the world, predating most European national flags by centuries.
• The legend of King Óengus and the white cross in the sky at Athelstaneford is commemorated by a flag heritage center at the battle site.
• Scotland's flag appears in the Union Jack as the white diagonal cross, combined with England's St. George's Cross and Ireland's St. Patrick's Cross.
• The exact shade of blue has varied throughout history - 'Pantone 300' is now the official color for government use.
• Saint Andrew never visited Scotland, but his relics were allegedly brought to Scotland in the 4th century by Saint Rule (Saint Regulus).
• The Saltire flies above Edinburgh Castle every day except when the Queen is in residence, when the Royal Standard takes precedence.
• During the Scottish independence referendum in 2014, the Saltire became a powerful symbol of national identity and self-determination.
• The flag is incorporated into many other flags including Nova Scotia (New Scotland) in Canada and several Australian state flags.
• Traditionally, the Saltire should not touch the ground and should be raised quickly and lowered slowly as a mark of respect.
• The Scottish National Party uses a stylized version with a yellow saltire on blue, differentiating political symbolism from the national flag.
• Saint Andrew's Day (November 30) is Scotland's national day, when the Saltire is displayed prominently across the country.
• The flag features in Scottish clan badges, military insignia, and is worn by Scottish athletes at international competitions like the Commonwealth Games.