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SIGNAL FLAG HISTORY
1. The flag story
Flags have the unique distinction of having been used throughout history to send messages long before electronic coomunication was available. Signaling at sea is one of the oldest uses of flags since the days of the earliest trading vessels and warships. During the Greek and Persian Wars, both sides used flag-like objects called "vexilloids" to communicate. By the middle ages the Genoese and Venetian fleets of Italy had more elaborate signals. During the American Civil War, a signaling method was developed that utilized a single flag to represent the dots and dashes of the Morse Code.
Over time a complete standardized system was developed that was both simple and universal. The International Flag Code used today includes 26 unique alphabet flags and 10 numerical pennantsl. Traditionally, sailers hoisted 1 to 5 code flags to send messages. While the advent of today's communication electronics has replaced the need for code flags. Colorful signal flags have evolved to a more peaceful use and still decorate the rigging and both recreational and military vessels in Cape Code and harbors throughtout the world.
2. Flags have been used throughout history to send messages. Signaling at sea in one of the oldest uses of flags since the days of the first warships and the earliest trading vessels. Signals were sent with flaglike objects called vexilloids by both sides of the wars between the Greeks and the Persians. By the middle ages the Genoese and Venetian fleets of Italy had more elaborate signals. During the American Civil War, a signaling method was developed that used a single flag to represent the dots and dashes of the Morse Code.
The need for universal comprehension spurred the development of standardized flag designs and uses. Hence - the International Flag Code used today - a complete signaling system including 26 alphabet flags and 10 numeral pennants. To send messages, sailors hoist one to five flags that have code meanings or spell out words.
Today, signal flags still decorate the rigging of military as well as recreational vessels in celebration of holidays and events. Decorative signal flags are also sported on clothing and gear to add a nautical touch. now you can use authentic signal flags for your own custom coded message on the clothing and gear of your choice.
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