We usually think of a flags as a piece of fabric attached to a pole. But before flags as we know them were invented people carried poles topped with carved symbols. They used these objects in the same way that we use flags - to show loyalty to a leader or country, or to send signals. The first evidence for these solid flag-like objects comes from ancient Egypt, where they were used to distinguish various parts of the kingdom. The ancient civilizations of Greece, Rome, and the Middle East used them is similar ways. It was the ancient Romans who made most use of these symbols. Each unit of their army had its own standard, including the famous eagles of the legions. They also introduced the first true flag in the western world - the vexillum. This did not look like a modern flag because it was attached to a horizontal pole. flags attached along one side to an upright pole first appeared in China, and were introduced to the west by the Arabs. But even then, flags were usually only made of plain fabric. Flags with actual designs on them became widespread during the Crusades. The Christians used the symbol of the cross, while the Moslems carried flags bearing inscriptions. In America, the Mexicans had developed flags made of feathers and the Aztecs had flags that could be carried on a warrior's back.