Throughout the ages flags have been a means of cultural and national identity, communication, and a means of representation for groups and associations. Compiled by a leading authority this book is a definitive and exhaustive visual reference to international flags, from the largest countries to the smallest states. Split into two sections, the first part of the book presents a fascinating overview of the history of flags, from the 3rd century BC to the 21st century. The second section covers over 600 flags in current use, including a continent-by-continent examination of countries, territories, organizations, individuals and causes. Lavishly illustrated, this book is both a stunning reference book and an invaluable resource. Fascinating and compelling, it offers historical, geographical and political insights into one of our most ancient forms of identification and communication.

Includes the origin and development of flags, government, military, navy ensigns and more.

A sensuous, heartbreaking novel about art, beauty and the choices we make that define us for life, from the author of the Giller Prize finalist Summer Gone A young man travels to Paris in 1968, where a series of unlikely events take him to a tiny village in Italyâe"and the one great love of his life. A marble merchant meets a couple on their honeymoon, introducing them to the sensual beauty of Carrara. An Italian woman arrives in Canada to find the father she never knew. A terrible accident in a marble quarry changes the course of a young boyâe(tm)s life and, ultimately, sets in motion each of these stories, which Macfarlane masterfully shapes into a magnificent whole. Oliver Hughson falls in love with wild, bohemian Anna over the course of one glorious summer in Italy. Bound by a sense of responsibility to his adoptive parents back home in Canada, however, he leaves her, an act he will regret for the rest of his life. Narrated by the daughter he never knew he had, The Figures of Beauty is a love story of mythic proportions. Through luck, fate and great good fortune, Oliver found the one place and the one woman he should never have left. This is the story of him trying to find his way back.

Vexillology, or the study of flags is a fascinating and ever-changing subject. TheComplete Flags of the World presents a detailed and compelling overview of the history behind the development of world flags. Each national flag is fully described with text and annotations that describe its history, the developmentof its design, the significance of colors, symbols, and crests. Even the smallest countries are given a full page, and the story of each flag is analyzed consistently to make comparisons simple. The attractive format and handy pocket size will make this an ideal gift or reference for anyone who is interested in flags.

Een overzicht van de vlaggen van alle landen en hun schildwapen. Er wordt ook ingegaan op de geschiedenis van de vlag.

Did you know that flags are actually pictures that send a message to everyone who sees them? In The Flag Book you'll uncover the hidden meanings of flags- from country and state colours to flags used in sports, on ships and aeroplanes, and by the most dastardly of Caribbean pirates.