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.

The national flag of England, a white banner with a bold red cross, has been displayed by soccer fans during the World Cup. But it has caused tension over whom, and what, it is meant to represent. St.

The United States turned 250 this summer, and to celebrate, we shot off fireworks and went to parades and, above it all, waved the American flag. Why is that? “Every country on Earth, for the most ...