Statuette of Mussolini doing the Roman Salute

Origins of the Roman Salute

The so-called Roman salute is often thought to have origins in ancient Rome, but there is little historical evidence to support this claim. In reality, the gesture as we know it today was popularized in the early 20th century through art and cinema, particularly in Italian nationalist movements and in the fascist regime under Mussolini. It was later adopted by Nazi Germany and other nationalist groups in Europe.

Use in Fascist Italy

In Fascist Italy, the Roman salute became a mandatory public gesture, used in military parades, political rallies, and public ceremonies as a symbol of loyalty to the regime. Schools, state employees, and even everyday citizens were often expected to perform it in public settings.

Historical Anecdote

One notable moment regarding the use of the salute occurred in 1938 when Italian King Victor Emmanuel III, who was not fond of the fascist regime’s rigid protocols, was seen giving an awkward, barely extended salute in public ceremonies. This led to speculation that he was not fully aligned with Mussolini’s ideology.

Today, the Roman salute is banned in several countries, particularly where laws prohibit the display of fascist symbols. In Italy, its public use can lead to legal consequences under laws against the glorification of totalitarian ideologies.