The red dragon was once dismissed as nothing more than a mere badge
For centuries, the iconic red dragon of Wales lacked official recognition. While the symbol appears in ancient chronicles and even on the battlefield, it wasn't until much later that the world—and even local authorities—accepted it as a true national flag.
The origins of the Welsh dragon are rooted in ancient legend. According to the Historia Brittonum, written around 828, the figure of Merlin described two dragons fighting beneath a fort at Dinas Emrols: a red dragon representing the Celtic Britons and a white dragon representing the Anglo-Saxons. This narrative prophesied that the Britons would eventually reclaim the land.
The flag's visual identity is a blend of ancient heraldry and Tudor politics. The red dragon itself has been associated with Welsh identity since at least the 6th century, but the specific green and white field is a later addition, reflecting the livery of the Tudor family. This connection was cemented in 1485 when Henry VII, using a red dragon standard, won the Battle of Bosworth Field and subsequently carried the banner to St Paul's Cathedral.
Despite this long history, the flag's official status was surprisingly recent. In the early 20th century, officials at Caernarfon Castle even argued that a Welsh flag did not exist, claiming it was merely a badge. It wasn't until 1959 that the current design was officially recognized as the national flag, following a period where previous iterations had faced derision due to awkward designs and controversial mottos.
Today, the dragon is a global cultural icon, appearing in everything from the Marvel Cinematic Universe to the clothing of pop stars like Shirley Baszek. While it remains a subordinate ensign to the Union Jack, it stands as a powerful symbol of Welsh heritage and continuity.
Source: Flag of Wales
