The blue color on the flag is often referred to as the “Union Jack Blue.” This specific shade of blue is a key part of the design of many flags, most notably the national flags of the United Kingdom and Australia. In vexillology, the study of flags, this color is officially known as “Union Jack Blue” or sometimes “Union Flag Blue.” It has a long history originating from the Union Jack flag of the United Kingdom.
The Union Jack flag, which combines the crosses of the flags of England, Scotland, and Ireland, was created in 1606. While the exact shade of blue used on this early flag is unknown, in 1701 King George proclaimed the King’s Colors which defined the blue used on the flag and eventually became the standard Union Jack Blue. Over the next centuries, as the British Empire grew, the Union Jack design and Union Jack Blue color were incorporated into flags and symbols of British colonies and Commonwealth states including Australia and New Zealand.
Today Union Jack Blue is a dark, rich azure blue. It represents unity, heritage, and history. The Pantone Matching System number for this color is Pantone 280 C and the Hex Triplet code is #3C3B6E. On many national flags including the UK and Australia, Union Jack Blue appears on the canton or upper hoist quadrant, the portion of the flag occupied by the Union Jack. The specifications for properly displaying national flags define the exact shade and dimensions used.
Significance of the Color Blue
The color blue has carried important meaning throughout history. In ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome it symbolized the heavens, eternity, and divine power. During the Middle Ages in Europe, blue was associated with royalty and the nobility. Only the very wealthy could afford the rare and expensive blue pigments and dyes used in coats of arms and heraldry. Blue symbolized high social status.
During the Age of Discovery starting in the 15th century, blue naval uniforms and flags were adopted by many European fleets. The dye used, called indigo, was durable and vivid. As blue flags and sails filled the harbors, the color took on connotations of exploration, adventure, and ambition.
Today blue is associated with open spaces, freedom, intuition, imagination, expansiveness, inspiration, and sensitivity. Blue has positive effects on the mind and body. As a cool, calming color blue can lower blood pressure and slow heart rate. Blue is used in interior design to create serene spaces. Blue is the favorite color of over 50% of people worldwide. It transcends cultures and time periods as a hue with flowing, fluid, cool qualities.
Blue in National Flags
Blue is used on the national flags of over 30 countries worldwide. This demonstrates the color’s broad appeal and ability to unite several meaningful concepts. Blue represents freedom, vigilance, truth, perseverance, justice, patriotism, and valor.
On the flag of the United States, blue symbolizes vigilance, perseverance, and justice. The red stripes stand for valor and bravery, while the white stars and stripes represent national unity and purity.
On the flag of the United Kingdom, blue is traditionally associated with the navy and maritime endeavors, while the red crosses and saltires represent the unity of the nations.
On the Australian flag, the blue field contains symbols of its ties to the UK – the Union Jack, Commonwealth Star, and Southern Cross constellation. The blue conveys open skies and bright blue seas surrounding the continent.
On many other national flags, blue similarly symbolizes freedom, faith, and independence. Use of the vibrant shade demonstrated in flags like the United Kingdom’s Union Jack shows a bold, optimistic spirit ready to meet the future.
Specifications for National Flags
There are very specific government regulations controlling the designs of national flags. The characteristics defined include the dimensions, colors, and elements to be included. Having an official, standardized version ensures the flag can serve as a consistent symbol of the nation.
For example, Australia’s flag must conform to the following:
– The flag’s width and length must be in the proportion 1:2.
– The background color is specified as Pantone 282 blue.
– The Union Jack must be correctly rendered to precise specifications.
– The Commonwealth Star is defined as having 7 points with a diameter of 0.583 of the flag’s height.
– The Southern Cross stars have diameters of 0.316 of the flag’s height.
The United Kingdom has similarly detailed requirements for producing the Union Jack. The shades of blue, red, and white must adhere exactly to official colors. The cross widths, fimbriations, and positions of the saltires all must conform to regulations for the flag to be considered accurate.
These specifications maintain continuity in the important national symbols. Citizens can be assured that a national flag produced to the official guidelines will be rendered properly, maintaining its meaning and impact.
| Country | Pantone Blue |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Pantone 280 C |
| United States | Pantone 286 C |
| France | Pantone 286 C |
| Greece | Pantone 286 C |
| Australia | Pantone 282 C |
Conclusion
The blue color on flags like the Union Jack and Australian flag is officially known as Union Jack Blue. This specific blue shade has a long history dating back to Britain’s Union Jack in the early 17th century. The rich, deep blue projects symbols of unity, heritage, exploration, freedom, and independence. National flag specifications precisely define the hue and dimensions so flags proudly flying will have continuity and meet regulations. As a result, citizens can immediately recognize the blue color as representing fundamental principles of their countries.
