During this period, Welsh leaders, such as Llywelyn the Great and Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, maintained the red dragon as a symbol of national pride and defiance, even as they were caught in the struggle to preserve Welsh autonomy from both Norman and later English domination.
The Red Dragon as a Symbol of Welsh Nationalism
Fast forward to the 19th century, the red dragon's significance was revived during the rise of Welsh nationalism. In 1807, the Welsh Royalist and historian, George Owen, noted that the red dragon should be recognized as a symbol of Welsh independence and pride. By this time, the symbol was already used in various forms, but it was during the 19th century that the Welsh began to fully embrace the dragon as a symbol of their cultural uniqueness and desire for self-governance.
In the Act of Union of 1536, Wales was legally absorbed into the Kingdom of England, and the red dragon's official status as a symbol of Welsh identity was sidelined by the English crown. However, the Welsh continued to identify with the dragon, and it remained a significant symbol for Welsh nationalists throughout the years.
The Official Adoption of the Red Dragon Flag
The modern version of the Welsh flag, featuring a red dragon on a green and white background, was officially adopted in 1959. However, the flag's roots trace back to earlier times, when it appeared on the banner of Henry VII during his victory at the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485, where he claimed the English crown. Henry VII was a Welsh prince, and his victory helped solidify the red dragon’s place as a symbol of Welsh identity in the broader context of the British monarchy.
In 1959, the Welsh government officially recognized the red dragon as the national flag of Wales, marking a triumph for Welsh cultural pride and the reclaiming of an ancient symbol of resistance and unity.
Conclusion
The Welsh flag, with its red dragon, carries with it a deep and rich history that is not just about a color or design—it is a symbol of the resilience, identity, and long-standing struggle of the Welsh people. From the earliest mythical tales of the red dragon’s victory over the white dragon to its role in the battles of Welsh kings and its eventual revival during the 19th and 20th centuries, the red dragon represents the spirit of Wales. Today, it remains a powerful reminder of the country’s enduring legacy, its fight for autonomy, and its cultural pride. shutdown123