Saint George

Christian martyr. Patron saint of England. St George's Day is 23 April.

Historically, possibly a Roman soldier who protested against Emperor Diocletian's persecution of Christians and was executed on 23 April 303. In hagiography and legend, miracle-worker and slayer of a dragon.

When Edward III founded the Order of the Garter in 1348, he made George its patron. Saint George's flag - red cross on white background - is part of the Union Jack.

Sources

• Collins, Michael. "St. George - England's Patron Saint." Britannia History. <http://www.britannia.com/history/stgeorge.html>
• http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/christianity/saints/george_1.shtml