The flags of dozens of countries had hung above the State Department’s main atrium. A red, white and blue change has sparked ...

National flags emerged from a colourful history that includes military banners, royal standards and maritime communication. Roman legions and armies in Mongolia and China pioneered flags in battle.

Every national flag tells a story. Stitched into the colors, symbols, and patterns of these rectangular pieces of cloth are centuries of history, sacrifice, cultural identity, and national aspiration.