12. Had Its Own Flag and Coat of Arms
In another striking display of its sovereign-like status, the East India Company proudly flew its own official flag and possessed a distinctive coat of arms. The company’s flag featured bold red and white stripes, often accompanied by the Union Jack in the upper corner, symbolizing its close ties to Britain yet asserting its autonomy. Similarly, its coat of arms depicted ships sailing across oceans, reflecting its maritime dominance and global reach. These symbols weren’t mere formalities—they signified the company’s extraordinary authority and identity, reinforcing its role as a powerful entity that functioned more like a nation than a commercial enterprise.
