Flags, as the distinguishing banners of nations, are the most immediate and recognizable of symbols but how many of us could spot the ensigns of the Bahamas or the Aland Islands or, say, the Falkland Islands? Did we even know the Falkland Islands had their own flag? This is the first book to organize flags primarily by their graphic element, allowing users to identify unfamiliar flags quickly and easily. It is truly comprehensive and contains more than 400 flags, and an alphabetical index makes searching for the flag of a country as simple as possible. A short history of flags, a glossary and a section on the use of flags aboard ships are also included. This is a superb and compact reference work which will appeal to sailors and ship enthusiasts, but it is also, in its simplicity, is a perfect resource for readers of all ages and from all walks of life.