The Pragmatic Origins of the British Army's Scarlet Coat

The red uniforms donned by troops of the English and later British Empire emerged as a mark of authority, primarily due to their visibility and availability rather than their ability to hide bloodstains. A significant development occurred in 1645 when the New Model Army, consisting of over 20,000 Parliamentarian soldiers, was outfitted with Venetian Red coats during the English Civil War. This association was further reinforced through campaigns in Ireland and Europe. Historian Julius Ferretus's theory about blood concealment is challenged by the reality that blood darkens on red material. Ultimately, practicality dictated that long overcoats required inexpensive dyes, with red being plentiful. By the late 19th century, scarlet uniforms became targets in the First Anglo-Boer War, prompting the switch to khaki in the Second Anglo-Boer War, while scarlet is retained for ceremonial occasions.