The Power of Identity

This article is about vexillology (study of flags)

Flags are a symbol of identity and can also act as a form of identification and also decoration. They carry pride and patriotism whilst being a form of recognition for a belief or way of life.

So in such a troublesome time, is the flag the issue or is it the inaccurate interpretations by of the flag's intended connotations. Let's investigate...

Flags were originated for battle so the oncoming armies could identify each other.

It was for a simple purpose of recognition. Only during the development of maritime exploration did flags become necessary to identify nationalities. It was only in the late 18th century were flags officially produced with nationalist sentiment and by the mid 19th century, every sovereign state had its own flag.

However the controversy of flags tends to predominantly come from colonial history and quests for independence. Two of the most recent examples are the confederate flag of the American South and the flag of New Zealand. The one case that stands out to me lies over the Confederate Flag (right) - a symbol of the American Deep South. It was originally used by rebel states who disagreed with Abraham Lincoln's anti-slavery legislation. Many opposed to the flag see it as a symbol of slavery and severe racism, while those in support of the flag see it as a symbol of heritage and identity. However it rose to attention following shootings in Charleston, South Carolina. The eventual verdict led to the flag being taken down outside of the state Capitol. 44th POTUS Barack 'damn the 22nd Amendment' Obama said that just because it had stayed the same for a long time doesn't mean it's right. This very neatly brings me on to the next flag debate.

New Zealand's flag was recently put into a ballot against a competitor after decades of debate over the current flag (right). The main arguments were that the current flag didn't represent the Maori people and that there were many similarities between its own flag and Australia's leading to widespread confusion. However the referendum was met with opposition and a nationwide low turnout. The population were satisfied with the current flag choice and were happy to maintain the Union Flag as part of their varied and diverse past.

So to summarise, it is the feeling of identity and belonging that arises upon sight of a flag. For after all, if you're part of something that you don't believe in, it is an opportunity to unite and let your voice be heard. Maybe you can change the situation such as those in South Carolina or maybe you just wanted a chance to gauge other's opinions. But isn't a voice the most important thing. I think so...

  

FACT of the IPoT: Denmark has the oldest flag still in use today, having been attested in 1478!!