The 'Union Jack' is a composite design representing the union of three kingdoms. It combines the red cross of St George (England), the white saltire of St Andrew (Scotland), and the red saltire of St Patrick (Ireland).
History
The current version was adopted in 1801 with the Act of Union between Great Britain and Ireland. Because Wales was historically a principality of England, it is not separately represented on the national flag.
Construction
The flag has a 1:2 aspect ratio. It is composed of a blue field with three layered crosses: a red central cross, a white saltire, and a red saltire.