The Emblem

 

Dunant made one further proposal: that the wounded, and all those carrying for them, should be regarded as neutral, even on the battlefield, and therefore be immune from attack (2). All that was required (sic) was a single protective emblem for all armies, that would be worn by everyone caring for the wounded, painted on ambulances, and flown over medical units. This emblem would confer upon them a new legal status of neutrality".

 

The Birth of the Red Cross (2,4)

 

The "Committee of Five" called an International Conference in Geneva in October 1863. Enthusiastic

support from all over Europe ensured the attendance of thirty-six delegates, including eighteen official representatives from fourteen governments. On the 29th October 1863 ten Resolutions were adopted, defining the functions and working methods of the proposed National Committees for Relief to Wounded Soldiers. 

 

Article 8 of these Resolutions stated that the voluntary medical personnel should wear in all countries, as a uniform distinctive sign, a white armlet with a red cross - this sign being adapted from the Swiss flag with its colours reversed.

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It was particularly fitting that it was General Dufour, creator of the Swiss flag, who conceived this other flag of universal honour.

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These Resolutions are the founding charter of the Red Cross. Within two months the first Relief Society was formed in Wurtemberg, and nine more were formed in the first year.

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The British Red Cross Society came into being in 1870, as the "National Society for Aid to the Sick & Wounded in War". It was formally renamed the Red Cross in 1905, received the Royal Charter in 1908, and it will celebrate its 125th birthday in 1995.

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