The white flag, a familiar symbol of surrender and peace, carries with it a long and complex history.
The Ancient Origins of the White Flag
Although the white flag is now widely recognized as a symbol of surrender, its origins are not easily traceable. The earliest recorded examples of using white fabric as a ceasefire symbol date back to Roman times. The historian Livy wrote that during the Second Punic War (218-201 BC), the Carthaginians used “white wool strips and olive branches” to signal their desire for peace.
Similarly, the historian Tacitus noted that during a Roman civil war in 69 AD, opposing factions used white cloth to propose a truce. However, there is no clear evidence of how the white flag became an official symbol during this period.
According to Professor Ed Watts of the University of California, San Diego, white fabric may have been chosen for its religious significance. Ancient Mediterranean peoples often wore white when worshipping their gods. In warfare, the use of white fabric could be a way to plead for forgiveness and mercy from adversaries, much like they prayed to the gods.
The use of white fabric as a ceasefire symbol dates back to Roman times.
From the earliest days of ancient warfare to modern international law, the white flag has continually evolved in meaning and usage. This journey reflects not only changes in military strategy but also humanity’s quest for compassion and reconciliation amidst fierce conflict.
From an Impromptu Symbol to a Recognized Legal Sign
Throughout the Middle Ages, there are not many clear records of white flag usage. However, by the 16th century, the term “white flag” officially appeared. In 1578, English explorer George Best recounted seeing the Inuit display “a white flag made from the bladder of an animal” to communicate peace.
In the 17th century, Dutch jurist Hugo Grotius noted the use of the white flag in his book on the law of war and peace. Grotius described the white flag as a tool for requesting parley (negotiation between opposing parties).
The popularity of the white flag in modern times can be attributed to its practicality. Unbleached fabric is often readily available in the military, easily recognizable, and not confused with the colorful battle flags. By the 19th century, the white flag had become a military symbol recognized worldwide.
One notable example is when Robert E. Lee surrendered to Ulysses S. Grant in 1865 during the American Civil War. The Confederate officer used a dish towel as a makeshift white flag to request a ceasefire. This artifact is now displayed at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, DC.
However, not every army is prepared with a white flag. James Ferrigan, a vexillology researcher (the study of flags), stated: “Carrying a white flag into combat can negatively impact morale, as your goal is always to win.”
Not every army is prepared with a white flag.
The White Flag in International Law
A significant milestone marking the official recognition of the white flag occurred at the First Hague Conference in 1899. Accordingly, carrying a white flag is protected by international law, and the bearer cannot be attacked when using it for communication or negotiation.
However, this right is not absolute. If the bearer of the white flag exploits this symbol to conduct acts of betrayal, they may lose their protective rights.
During World War I and II, the white flag continued to play an important role. In 1914, during the “Christmas Truce,” German soldiers used the white flag to call for peace with their adversaries. Similarly, at the Battle of the Bulge in 1944, German troops approached American forces with a white flag to propose surrender, but they received the sarcastic response: “Nuts!”
The Role of the White Flag in Civilian Life
Beyond the battlefield, the white flag is also used by civilians seeking protection in conflicts. Especially in situations of riots or warfare, civilians often raise a white flag to signal that they are not combatants and wish to be spared.
However, the white flag does not always guarantee safety. There have been cases where even with the white flag raised, civilians were still shot by armed forces. Such incidents have sparked outrage and controversy from human rights organizations, highlighting the urgent need to respect the meaning of this international symbol.
The white flag has become an integral part of war and peace culture.
The White Flag: From a Symbol of War to a Message of Peace
Over thousands of years, the white flag has become an indispensable part of the culture of war and peace. From the early days of the Punic Wars to events like the American Civil War and the Christmas Truce of 1914, the white flag has transcended cultural and temporal boundaries to convey messages of compassion, forgiveness, and the desire for peace.
Today, whether in war or civilian life, the white flag remains a powerful symbol, reminding us that even in the most difficult situations, humanity can still seek reconciliation and compassion.
