Aims To understand the significance of St. George’s Day. To learn key information about the life of St. George.

What Is Englishness? What do all of these items have in common? Photo courtesy of Magnus D, Robin Zebrowski, Saalena Bamjee, Wonker, Jimmy Harris, Fsse8info (didbygraham@flickr.com) - granted under creative commons licence - attribution

What Is Englishness? What Does ‘Englishness’ Mean?

St. George Painting of St. George and the Dragon by Mattia Preti (1678)

Who Was St. George? Every country, has its own patron saint, who in times of great danger, is called upon to help save the country from its enemies. Fascinating Facts About St. George: He was born in Turkey. He lived during the 3rd century AD. He was a Christian. He became a Roman soldier at age 17. He was known for his bravery. He protested against Rome's persecution of Christians. He was imprisoned and tortured, but stayed true to his faith. He was killed in Palestine. King Edward III made him the Patron Saint of England in 1350.

Who Is St. George? St. George is patron saint not only of England but also of: Countries: Aragon, Catalonia, Ethiopia, Georgia, Greece, Lithuania, Palestine, Portugal, and Russia. Cities: Amersfoort, Beirut, Bteghrine, Cáceres, Ferrara, Freiburg, Genoa, Ljubljana, Pomorie, Qormi, Lod and Moscow.

What Is St. George’s Day? St. George’s Day is England’s national day. In 1222, the English Council of Oxford declared April the 23rd to be St. George’s Day. St. George’s emblem, a red cross on a white background, is the flag of England, and part of the British flag. St. George's emblem was adopted by Richard the Lion Heart and brought to England in the 12th century. The king's soldiers wore it on their tunics to avoid confusion in battle. This emblem is commonly seen on St. George’s Day. St. George’s flag.

The Story of St. George and the Dragon

How Is St. George’s Day Celebrated? St. George’s Flag is flown throughout the day. St. George is also the patron saint of Scouting. On the Sunday closest to April 23rd, the Scouts and the Guides go on parade to their nearest church. A popular custom for people on St. George’s Day, is to wear a red rose in their buttonhole, the national flower for the national day.

Reflection What are you scared of? St. George was very brave and overcame his fear of the dragon. Be brave and face your fears so that they aren’t scary anymore.