It's a reference to the pirate flag, which though it could be a skull and crossed boned or swords, often times was just a plain black flag. So more of a, "surrender or prepare to fight because we plan to conquer you". Interestingly, if a pirate ship raised a red flag it meant unless you surrender now, we won't be taking any prisoners.
What’s the black flag symbolize?
HL Mencken quote: “Every normal man must be tempted, at times, to spit on his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats.”
So. Basically the opposite of the white flag. Meaning we will not surrender— at least that’s what I’ve gathered from searching. Makes sense. Thanks :)
It's a reference to the pirate flag, which though it could be a skull and crossed boned or swords, often times was just a plain black flag. So more of a, "surrender or prepare to fight because we plan to conquer you". Interestingly, if a pirate ship raised a red flag it meant unless you surrender now, we won't be taking any prisoners.