In military organizations, the practice of carrying
colours,
standards or
guidons, both to act as a rallying point for troops and to mark the location of the commander, is thought to have originated in
Ancient Egypt some 5,000 years ago. The
Roman Empire also made battle standards a part of their vast armies. It was formalized in the armies of Europe in the
High Middle Ages, with standards being emblazoned with the commander's
coat of arms.