11-12-2006, 03:49 AM
One finds the swastika still being used in Japan, particularly on their maps, to denote the location of Buddhist temples.
There were also some samurai clans that used it on their banners (sashimono) in battle.
However, it has been tainted and will probably never be "rehabilitated" in our life times if ever. Even Dragon of Hong Kong, which specializes in 12" WWII action figures, goes to great lengths to cover up swastikas and SS runes as well as adding a disclaimer on the box itself.
As for the German unit using a variation of the Afrika Korps vehicle emblem...it does give one pause to wonder. (And thanks for the link Ioannis
)
Based upon the report, I have my doubts that the soldiers were using the symbol to espouse Nazi ideology.
Look at the arguments in the United States the continue to swirl around the use and display of the Confederate Battle Standard (The Stars and Bars). Many argue that it is a symbol of Southern pride, or is flown in honor of the brave soldiers who fought in a noble cause, etc. etc. etc. Others would equate it to the swastika.
There are no doubt some people who are still angry at the Romans for the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem in 70 CE, and who might find this site and our interest in the Roman military to be of questionable taste. (Admittedly I might be stretching the point here just a bit. :oops: )
History is a strange thing sometimes. :?
Narukami
There were also some samurai clans that used it on their banners (sashimono) in battle.
However, it has been tainted and will probably never be "rehabilitated" in our life times if ever. Even Dragon of Hong Kong, which specializes in 12" WWII action figures, goes to great lengths to cover up swastikas and SS runes as well as adding a disclaimer on the box itself.
As for the German unit using a variation of the Afrika Korps vehicle emblem...it does give one pause to wonder. (And thanks for the link Ioannis
)Based upon the report, I have my doubts that the soldiers were using the symbol to espouse Nazi ideology.
Look at the arguments in the United States the continue to swirl around the use and display of the Confederate Battle Standard (The Stars and Bars). Many argue that it is a symbol of Southern pride, or is flown in honor of the brave soldiers who fought in a noble cause, etc. etc. etc. Others would equate it to the swastika.
There are no doubt some people who are still angry at the Romans for the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem in 70 CE, and who might find this site and our interest in the Roman military to be of questionable taste. (Admittedly I might be stretching the point here just a bit. :oops: )
History is a strange thing sometimes. :?
Narukami
David Reinke
Burbank CA
Burbank CA
