Saint Patrick’s Saltire Flag - History, Meaning & Usage #1908727 (License: Personal Use)

The Saint Patrick’s Saltire features a red saltire (X-shaped cross) on a white field, adopted in 1783 as the badge of the Order of St Patrick. It was incorporated into the Union Jack in 1801 to represent Ireland following the Acts of Union, and remains a key emblem in Northern Irish symbolism today. Though not an official national flag of Ireland, it holds deep historical and cultural resonance.

Used in historical articles, educational resources, vexillology sites, and content about the UK or Irish heritage; matches user intent for learning about flag symbolism, British-Irish history, or designing culturally accurate visuals.