Is the Cross of St. George on the Flag of England Actually the Cross of St. Ambrose?

St. Ambrose was the Bishop of Milan in the late 4th century and a leading figure in the fight against Arianism, a theological controversy surrounding the nature of Christ. Many believe that the symbol associated with St. Ambrose - a red cross on a white field - has been wrongly attributed to the Cross of St. George on the flag of England.

Symbolism of St. Ambrose's Cross

According to historical records, the symbol of St. Ambrose was a red cross on a white field. This tradition is associated with the bishops of Milan and the city itself. The flag of the City of Milan prominently features this design:

The design is strikingly similar to what is often misconceived as the Cross of St. George. Both flags consist of a red cross on a white background, which raises the question of the true origin of the design used on the English flag.

Evolution of the Cross of St. George

While the basic design of the cross is found in both the Milanese flag and the Cross of St. George, the introduction of the red cross and its association with St. George to English heraldry occurred later. Historical records indicate that this symbol was introduced into England from the 13th century onwards, initially not as a flag but as a heraldic symbol.

During the 10th century, the red cross became a prominent symbol in Genoa, a reflection of the Crusades and the martial tradition of the time. The Cross of St. George, as it is now known in England, likely derived from these same influences, further blurring the lines of origin.

Similarities and Differences

Despite the similarities in design, there are subtle differences between the two crosses. For instance, some claim there might be a slight difference in the shade of red used, although it is unclear if this is an official distinction or simply a matter of artistic interpretation. Similarly, the thickness of the crosses might appear different based on the dimensions of the images being compared.

It is important to note that both flags are variations of a basic design of a cross on a plain background. Given the shared origins of the cross design in medieval Europe, it would be challenging for anyone to claim a monopoly on the idea.

Conclusion

The true origin of the Cross of St. George used on the flag of England is a subject of historical speculation. While it is widely known and recognized, there is a strong early historical connection to the symbol of St. Ambrose. As with many such symbols, the evolution of the design is multifaceted and influenced by various historical, cultural, and political factors. Whether this means that the Cross of St. George is a misappropriation of another design is up to the interpretation of each observer.