Vexillology

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Vexillology is the study of flags. A person who studies flags is called a vexillologist. The term was coined around 1960 by Dr. Whitney Smith of the United States, currently the foremost vexillologist in the world and author of many books and articles on this subject.

The word vexillology is a synthesis of the Latin word "vexillum" and the suffix "-logy" which is used in the names of other sciences (biology, geology, sociology, psychology...). See List of ologies. The vexillum was a particular type of flag used by Roman legions during the classical era. Unlike most modern flags which are suspended from a pole or mast along their left side, the square vexillum was suspended from a crossbar along its top side, which crossbar was attached to a spear.

Vexillologists are active in several national associations under the umbrella of FIAV (Fédération Internationale des Associations Vexillologiques). Every second year, FIAV organizes an international congress of vexillology (ICV 2005 will be in Buenos Aires, Argentina). Internet activity of vexillologists centers around the Flags of the World (FOTW) Website and mailing list.

Vexillology

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