From nationalism to netball, country flags and the fervour that surrounds them

Is there better way to begin an article on country flags than with a lengthy quotation from one of the world’s foremost transvestite comedians? Possibly not – but then, it does serve my purposes in a roundabout sort of way:

“We stole countries with the cunning use of flags. Just sail around the world and stick a flag in. “I claim India for Britain!” They’re going “You can’t claim us, we live here! Five hundred million of us!” “Do you have a flag …?” “What? We don’t need a flag, this is our home, you ********” “No flag, No Country, You can’t have one! Those are the rules..” – Eddie Izzard, Dress to Kill (1998)

Historically then, country flags have their origins in military purposes. The age of sail denoted the use and rise of country flags, where signs were necessary to carry effectively across the waves those nationalistic sentiments.

Over the years, country flags have arguably been waved less in political and militaristic arenas, instead country flags finding favour in the stadiums around the world, in large scale sporting events. Flags Online are a South African based company specialising in country flags, from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe, you name it, they have a flag for it. Their range of country flags is astonishing.

Their country flags are available in four varieties. Country flags in desk, storm, and standard and ceremonial flag sizes, the smallest of which measuring 15 x 10cm, the largest a staggering 270cm x 180cm.

Of course, the Olympics is this year once again to experience its quadrennial flourish and those country flags will be flying high in the stands in the hands of those eager to show their solidarity and support for their fellow countryman with their country flags.

For those of you in London this year for the ‘big event’, it’s unlikely that you’ll want to turn up empty handed – visit Flags Online and show your support.

If you are feeling patriotic and want to show allegiance to your nation then country flags from flagsonline.co.za are ideal. We also supply the most resilient, durable and hard wearing flag poles.