France

The flag of France has a multifaceted origin. In the 4th century, french kings flew the blue banner of St. Martin. Afterward, the red Auriflamme banner of St. Denis was used. Finally, Joan of Arc flew a white banner, representing the Virgin Mary, which was later adopted by the Bourbons. In 1789 when the Bastille was stormed, the attackers carried the current tricolor flag, emblematic of all three preceding flags.