St George, Patron saint of England
Despite being known for slaying a dragon, St George was actually just a high ranking officer in the Roman
Army who joined because of his father's soldier service in Emperor Diocletian's army. George was martyred by
beheading for refusing to give up the Christian faith in on 23 April 303AD. Despite having never set foot in
England, St George's name was known there as early as 8th century. In the 12th century, those on Crusades to
the Holy Land began invoking his name as an aid in battle. In 1350, King Edward the Third made St George the
patron saint of England and his cross became part of the flag for England. If you were to dismantle the Union
Jack by taking the Blue saltire (representing Scotland and St Andrew) and St Patrick's cross (which represented
Ireland and currently Northern Ireland), you have England's flag and St George's cross (Apologies to those who
love the Union Jack but there had to be a way to explain the flag and this way was simpler). St George's Day is
commemorated on 23rd April.