The Troubled History of the Northern Ireland Flag
A Symbol of Division
The flag of Northern Ireland, commonly known as the Ulster Banner or the Red Hand Flag, is a controversial symbol that divides the population along sectarian lines. The flag is flown by unionists, who support Northern Ireland remaining part of the United Kingdom, and by some loyalists, who want to maintain strong ties with the United Kingdom.
A Contested Symbol
The flag's design is taken from the coat of arms of the O'Neill dynasty, who ruled Ulster from the 12th to the 17th centuries. The red hand is said to represent the Red Hand of Ulster, a legendary figure who is said to have been the first person to set foot on Irish soil.
Nationalists, who support a united Ireland, see the flag as a symbol of British colonialism and oppression. They argue that the flag is not representative of the entire population of Northern Ireland, and that it should not be flown from public buildings.
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