Swastika Symbolism Essay

Wyatt Gilliam
Critical analysis
English 101

Controversial symbols test us to stay true to our values as a nation and as a people. To stand up for what you believe in, but show acceptance and open mindedness as well, having controversial symbols around us make us stronger and more bonded as a people through understanding and acceptance. By facing these symbols, we make our world better and more appreciative of each other’s differences and cultures.
The issue with misunderstood symbols such as the swastika today are that the public already has their own ideas and opinions on the swastika and once they see it their first thoughts go straight to what they know and have seen from Nazism and immediately associate that person or the object with the

“The History of an Ancient Human Symbol” by Collectors guide, is also an article about educating the reader that the swastika is not simply a symbol of hatred but that it has been around for millennia long before its use with Hitler. To other societies of the world it generally means something peaceful or good. The swastika has been here for nearly 6000 years now and it is generally agreed the swastika came about in India where its first and original meaning would have been well-being. It can be seen in rock and cave paintings thousands of years ago, on the capitol building, in other religions as a sacred symbol, and it can be found throughout native American cultures as a symbol of the 4 winds. Sadly, the swastika is now only viewed as a horrible symbol of hatred and killing so badly that now because of the swastikas’ tarnished reputation and association with the Nazi regime the Navajo, Papago, Apache and Hopi people chose to stop incorporating their once sacred symbol that meant to their people the 4 winds in their daily lives and pottery, religion, and weavings. As another example, for Westerners especially if the swastika is seen engraved, painted, sewn, etc. on any object or used in any way “we would immediately assume any object so imprinted had a direct link with Nazism.” (Collectors Guide). We have forced a people’s hand to discontinue their use of such a sacred lasting symbol because of our societies education and association on such a symbol. It is not fair to others nor should it have ever of been an option for them to give up what makes them them. Again, controversial symbols such as the Swastika symbol should be allowed its continued use as a religious and cultural symbol so that we may all foster appreciation for different beliefs, cultures, and faiths around our shared