Flags of all Nations book
Date1813
Object number00006718
NameBook
MediumInk on paper, leather bound boards
DimensionsOverall: 19 x 283 x 220 mm, 0.6 kg
ClassificationsBooks and journals
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionPublished in 1813 and titled 'Flags of all Nations' this book features "a collection of the principal flags of all nations of the world", at that time and includes six foldout plates of early naval masts.HistoryFlags have been used throughout history as banners or standards which are flown to represent tribes, armies or fleets. Over time the use of the flag has evolved from its role in assisting the coordination of military action on battlefields to a more wide-ranging use as a signaling and identification tool. This became particularly important at sea where communication was limited prior to the advent of technology.
It is thought that national flags made their first appearance on vessels during the 12th Century. For smaller regions that lacked a clear head of state, the use of national flags during this time were essential in establishing a unifying identity. Generally speaking smaller states or countries adopted a particular colour or saint on their national flag. Larger countries, such as France and England, however used the banner of the sovereign lord as their national flag.
Flags were also used for ceremonial purposes, including "half-masting" - lowering a flag halfway down the flag pole as a sign of mourning.SignificanceThis rare book is a useful work for charting the history of flags used during the 18th and 19th centuries.
