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The Roman Salute

I am posting mainly to trigger people, but what do I know? I am …

Elon seems to like to challenge social norms.

So I copied this about the Roman Salute from a nice piece from a Turkish (click me) publication.

The Roman Salute, a gesture historically associated with ancient Rome, is commonly recognized as the act of raising one arm, usually at shoulder height, and extending the hand outward, palm facing forward.

This gesture, initially a symbol of respect and loyalty, has been interpreted and repurposed throughout history.

While it originated in the Roman Empire, its modern use has taken on various controversial meanings, especially during the 20th century.

Origins of Roman Salute in ancient Rome

The Roman Salute’s origins date back to the Roman Republic and the early days of the Roman Empire, particularly around the first century B.C. The salute was a military gesture used by Roman soldiers to show loyalty to their commanders or the state. It was also a means of conveying authority and honor. It is believed that Roman soldiers often used salutes when they addressed their commanders, high-ranking officials, or the emperor.

During the reign of Augustus, the first Roman Emperor, the salute was formalized and became more widely recognized. Augustus, who sought to consolidate power and create a unified image of Rome, utilized various symbols and gestures, including the Roman Salute, to communicate authority and devotion to the state. In this period, it became a common practice between both military and civilian Romans.

The Roman Salute, in this sense, represented loyalty to the emperor and the state, symbolizing both personal allegiance and the strength of the Roman Empire.

Augustus’ reign marked the beginning of the Roman Empire, and with it came the centralization of power and the institutionalization of Roman culture. The salute helped reinforce the emperor’s authority, and over time, it became a symbol of the Roman state’s power and unity.

It was not only a gesture of greeting but also a reaffirmation of the individual’s place within the hierarchical structure of Roman society.