Dumb American…

…no more? Hardly. But in an effort to help others, who like me, are trying to rid ourselves of the ignorance that comes with being an egocentric American, I would like to share some of the wisdom I acquired while abroad…

The Union Jack

This…

… is not the flag of England. It is the national flag of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and is properly referred to as the Union Flag, not Jack.

The flag of England is this…


… in honor of St. George, England’s patron saint.

The Union Jack has quite a history, but briefly, here is how the Union Flag is made up:

Cool, huh?

Beefeaters

Turns out the term “Beefeater” is not just a crazy name for a high quality gin. It’s an actual term for the Yoeman Warders who are the ceremonial guarders of the Tower of London. They were instated at the tower back in 1485, responsible for guarding the prisoners and the crown jewels. Today they serve as tour guides. For more, go here.