It’s a classic case of “been there, done that.” The Union Jack represents the United Kingdom, and for a few hundred years, the British Empire had a massive influence around the world. When colonies gained independence, many kept the Union Jack as a symbol of their shared past—a nod to history, not a desire to go back.
Think of it like a family crest. Some families burn the old coat of arms; others keep it framed in the hallway. These flags chose to keep the frame, but repainted the picture inside. The result? A cool blend of old and new.
The “Blue Ensign” Crew: Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji
Let’s start with the big ones. Australia and New Zealand both rock a dark blue background with the Union Jack in the top left corner. On first glance, they look like twins—but look closer. Australia has a seven-pointed star (the Commonwealth Star) and a scattering of white stars for the Southern Cross. New Zealand’s stars are red with white borders, and there are four of them.
It’s like comparing two cousins who wear the same sweater but different sneakers. And then there’s Fiji—their flag adds a shield with a lion, sugar cane, and a coconut palm. That shield is so detailed it feels like a tiny storybook. Who knew a flag could pack so much personality?
The Red Ensign Surprise: Bermuda and Canada’s Ghost
Now, the red background flags are rarer, but they carry a punch. Bermuda’s flag is a classic red ensign, but it features a rogue lion holding a shield with a shipwreck. Yes, a shipwreck! That’s because Bermuda’s economy was literally built on salvaging ships that crashed on its reefs. It’s a flag that says, “We turn disaster into cash.”
Fun fact: Canada used to fly a red ensign with the Union Jack, too, before they switched to the maple leaf in 1965. But you can still spot that old design on some historical buildings. It’s like an ex-girlfriend’s photo that no one wants to take down.
All Flags With Union Jack In Corner at Suzan Wills blog
