Whether on the medieval battlefield or in modern football stadiums, the St. George’s flag has represented England for centuries. But unlike the United States, where acts of overt patriotism are celebrated, England has a more nuanced relationship with St. George’s Cross. As the country wrestles with its immigration policy, so too is the U.K. debating the public display of St. George’s flag. How did St. George’s Cross come to be England’s flag? For generations, St. George’s flag flew without controversy from royal standards and church spires.