|
The use of the white saltire (X-shaped) St Andrew’s cross in Scotland can be traced back to at least the 12th
century, with tradition suggesting its origin dates back to the 8th century.
In 1385, Scottish troops going into battle wore the white cross of St
Andrew as a distinguishing mark, either directly on their uniform or on a dark section of
cloth.
By the 15th century this had evolved to a white saltire on a blue background.
The Scottish flag is also one of three flags that make up one of the
most famous flags in the world, the Union Flag or Union Jack of Great
Britain.
The Union Jack consists of the Scottish white saltire of St Andrew on a blue field, the English red cross of St George on a white field and the Irish red saltire of St Patrick on a white field.
According to tradition Scotland’s adoption of St Andrew, a disciple of Jesus who is said to have been crucified on an X-shaped
cross, as their patron saint is credited to some of his relics (bones) being taken to Scotland and buried at
the site of modern day St Andrews.
However, another popular legend dating to the 8th century claims that King Angus,
about to lead his army of Picts and Scots into battle against a stronger invading force,
spent a night praying for divine guidance, with St Andrew appearing in
his dreams, promising victory.
The next day Angus looked up into a
blue sky and saw the white clouds merge to form a saltire. After sighting the cross Angus led his army to victory and proclaimed St Andrew to be the patron saint of Scotland. |
