This superb collection of specially commissioned photographs presents a comprehensive survey of flags - from national flags and signalling flags to those used in sport and on ceremonial occasions.Starting with the standards of the ancient Egyptians and the Romans the book traces the uses of flags on the battlefield and at sea in sport and by political leaders and churchmen. Learn about the influence of heraldry and the meaning behind the most common symbols and colours used in flag designs. Discover the history of many national flags from the Union Jack and French Tricolour to the Stars and Stripes and the Danish 'Dannerbrog'.A fascinating introduction to the subject Flag also reveals how flags have become symbols of national pride and how they have figured in the changing histories of the nations of the world.