A national symbol is a manifestation of a nation or community to the world, serving as a representation of their identity and values. It encompasses not only sovereign states but also nations and countries in a state of colonial or other forms of dependence, federal integration, or even ethnocultural communities that identify as a "nationality" despite lacking political autonomy.[1]
National symbols intend to unite people by creating visual, verbal, or iconic representations of the national people, values, goals, culture and/or history. These symbols are often rallied around as part of celebrations of patriotism and/or aspiring nationalism (such as independence, autonomy, and/or separation movements) and are designed to be inclusive and representative of all the people of the national community.
^"England's National Symbols". england.org.za. Archived from the original on 24 October 2012. Retrieved 18 September 2012. National symbols are defined as the symbols or icons of a national community (such as England), used to represent that community in a way that unites its people.
