Vexillology studies all aspects of flags.
Study of flags
Vexillology is the discipline that is responsible for the scientific and systematic study of flags, both in their design , symbology, history, use and classification . It focuses on analyzing and understanding its physical, cultural and sociopolitical aspects, as well as its evolution over time. The vexillology specialist is known as a vexillologist .
Vexillologists study the characteristics of flags, such as colors, shapes, symbols , and proportions, to understand their meaning and their ability to convey messages. They also investigate its history and context, its use in different areas (military, political, civil, sports, among others) and its relationship with the identity and culture of people and groups.
Vexillology is multidisciplinary: it combines elements of history, sociology, psychology, visual communication and graphic design . Vexillologists use research and analysis methods to examine flags from different perspectives and establish principles and rules for the creation and effective use of flags.
Vexillology is currently considered one of the auxiliary disciplines of history since its contributions contribute to the assessment and use of historical sources. Furthermore, it is common for it to be linked to semiotics . Since it is not a university degree, it can be learned through certain courses, conferences and events promoted by organizations in the sector.
History
The origins of vexillology date back to ancient times, where flags and banners were used on the battlefield to identify different groups and leaders. Ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians, Persians, Greeks and Romans, used these elements to distinguish their armies and highlight their authority .
As time went by, flags began to take on a broader meaning and were used not only for military purposes, but also as political and national symbols . During the Middle Ages, banners became symbols of kingdoms and territories, and orders of chivalry adopted their own flags as signs of identification.
The development of vexillology as a formal discipline occurred in the 19th century. In 1855, Swiss archaeologist and scholar Ferdinand Keller coined the term vexillology to refer to the scientific study of flags. From then on, various experts began to research and classify flags according to their physical characteristics, patterns and symbolism.
One of the most important milestones in the history of vexillology was the founding of the International Association of Vexillology ( International Federation of Vexillological Associations , in English) in 1965. This organization brought together specialists from all over the world with the aim of promoting its study. and diffusion. Since then, vexillology has gained recognition and become a respected field of study.
International Association of Vexillology
The International Association of Vexillology is an organization that brings together vexillological societies from different countries and promotes the study and dissemination of this discipline worldwide . It was founded in Muiderberg, Netherlands, during the First International Congress of Vexillology.
She is recognized as the leading authority in the field of vexillology worldwide. It is made up of national or regional societies and organizations, which are full members and have the possibility of participating in the activities and decisions of the association.
Some flags are national and political symbols.
Some of its most important objectives are the following:
- establish and maintain relationships between vexillological societies;
- promote vexillological research ;
- organize international conferences;
- maintain a database and specialized library;
- promote the publication and dissemination of vexillological knowledge.