Global interventions to support American interests
The symbol of Hermes and Mercury in Greek and Roman mythology is a winged staff with two snakes. Primarily used in medicine, it gained popularity through the US Army Medical Corps in 1902.
The ichthys, also referred to as the Jesus fish, was used by various ancient civilizations including the Greeks, Romans, and pagans before early Christians embraced it. As the offspring of Atargatis, an ancient sea goddess, the ichthys symbol was associated with fertility and women.
The peace symbol, widely recognized today, was created in the 1950s by Gerald Holtom as a symbol for the British Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament. It was subsequently embraced by anti-war and counterculture advocates during the 1960s.
Often misused as a symbol of control and surveillance, this symbol of God represents spiritual sights and higher knowledge. Depicted on the US one-dollar bill, the all seeing eye is believed to have originated in ancient Egypt.
The evil eye, found in various cultures of the Mediterranean, is believed to be a curse resulting from a malevolent stare, typically targeting an unsuspecting individual. The earliest known instances of the evil eye can be traced back to ancient Greece and Rome.
Originally adopted during the Russian Revolution, the symbol signifies the unity between industrial and agricultural laborers. The hammer symbolizes workers, while the sickle represents peasants. The emblem stands for proletarian solidarity and cooperation.
The Celtic trinity knots, dating back to the 6th century, symbolize faith and devotion with their three points representing the Holy Trinity.
The cross symbolizes the crucifixion of Jesus in Christianity worldwide. The red cross is a well-known symbol for medical and humanitarian relief workers.
An ancient symbol used by Wiccans and in paganism, the pentagram is made up of five points. The upward point represents a spiritual being, such as Gaia or Mother Earth. The other four points represent wind, water, earth, and fire. Often found in ancient amulets and jewelry, it was believed to protect against evil.
The yin and yang symbol is fundamental in Chinese philosophy, signifying ideal equilibrium. Mainly associated with Taoism, it represents two halves that, when joined, create an encompassing unity.
A representation of Jewish identity and faith, the Star of David takes the form of a hexagram, consisting of two equilateral triangles joined together. This emblem emerged as a decorative motif in synagogues dating back to the 4th century, as well as in Christian churches situated in the Galilee region
Π is a mathematical symbol that represents a constant, denoting the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter. Additionally, it is the 16th letter in the Greek alphabet.
This symbol of love and affection, with an elusive historic origin, dates back to the end of the Middle Ages and serves as a metaphor for the heart.
The double-headed eagle dates back to the Bronze Age and has often been used as a symbol by major empires in history. It has been used by the Holy Roman Empire, Serbia, Albania, and Russia since the 13th century.
Often called the key of life or the key of the Nile, the ankh symbol was a representation of eternal life in ancient Egypt. Some interpretations suggest that it may be considered the earliest form of a cross.
This emblem has been used by several European countries. However, it is strongly linked with French monarchy and has also symbolized French saints.
The star and crescent has been used in different historical contexts, notably as a symbol of the Ottoman Empire. Presently, it is widely acknowledged as the symbol of Islam.
The mandala, a geometric pattern representing the universe and wisdom, is frequently seen in Western coloring books but holds significance in Buddhism.
The skull and crossbones symbol, typically associated with warning labels for hazardous substances, piracy, and danger, traces back to the Late Middle Ages when it was used as a symbol for death.
The tree of life, regarded as a symbol representing limitless vitality and perpetual rejuvenation, is believed to have originated in Central Asia before being adopted by different civilizations. It holds significance in several religions and philosophies, including Scandinavian mythology and Altai shamanism.
The ampersand, also known as the "and sign," originated as a ligature of the letters et, Latin for— you guessed it—"and."
The legendary "fire bird" is connected to the worship of the Aztec sun god, Huitzilopochtli, symbolizing rebirth, resurrection, and immortality.
The basic circle has been noted in the Moon and the Sun, and its existence predates recorded history. Within mathematics, the exploration of circles has influenced the advancement of geometry, astronomy, and calculus.
The dragon, a highly esteemed symbol in Asian culture, embodies strength, power, wisdom, luck, and magic.
The white dove, revered in major world religions like Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, symbolizes peace, grace, and divinity. Its historical significance dates back to ancient Mesopotamia.
The lion is commonly referred to as the "king of the jungle" and is traditionally associated with bravery, dignity, monarchy, and power. Additionally, it holds significance in Judeo-Christian beliefs.
Recognized as a symbol in various cultures, the owl's historical prominence can be attributed to its constant association with Athena, the Greek goddess of learning. Consequently, the owl is closely linked with themes of education, intelligence, and wisdom.
The Square and Compasses are emblematic tools used in Masonic rituals to convey symbolic lessons. They represent the architect's profession and are widely recognized as symbols of Freemasonry.
Sources: (HuffPost) (BBC)
See also: Decoding the symbolism of Freemasonry
Symbols have always played a significant role in human civilization. Various cultures have employed symbols as a means of self-expression. From the prehistoric era, men would engrave their life experiences on cave walls, never imagining that we would still be discussing them centuries later. Today, we continue to utilize many symbols that have been passed down through generations.
Whether in religion, political ideology, or art, we encounter these symbols in our daily lives, often unaware of their true origins and significance. If you wish to delve deeper into the meanings behind the world's most prevalent symbols, take a look through this gallery.
The surprising truth behind the world's most famous symbols
Discover their fascinating origins and true meanings
LIFESTYLE Curiosities
Symbols have always played a significant role in human civilization. Various cultures have employed symbols as a means of self-expression. From the prehistoric era, men would engrave their life experiences on cave walls, never imagining that we would still be discussing them centuries later. Today, we continue to utilize many symbols that have been passed down through generations.
Whether in religion, political ideology, or art, we encounter these symbols in our daily lives, often unaware of their true origins and significance. If you wish to delve deeper into the meanings behind the world's most prevalent symbols, take a look through this gallery.