Did Elon Musk do a Nazi salute? Understanding the controversial gesture, its historical context

“My heart goes out to you. It is thanks to you that the future of civilization is assured,” Musk said. However, his gesture quickly went viral, with many on social media comparing it to the infamous Nazi salute.

Despite the backlash, Musk posted on X, “Frankly, they need better dirty tricks. The ‘everyone is Hitler’ attack is sooo tired.”

In light of the uproar, it’s crucial to understand what exactly the Nazi salute represents, why it is considered such a powerful symbol, and how its history contributes to the ongoing debates surrounding Musk’s gesture.

What is the Nazi salute?

The Nazi salute, often referred to as the “Hitler salute”, became one of the most potent symbols of Nazi ideology in 1930s Germany. It was a raised, outstretched right arm, with the palm facing downward, usually at a 45-degree angle. The salute was not just a gesture but a performative act intended to instill a sense of unity and devotion to Hitler and the Nazi cause. It was used at rallies, public events, and military gatherings, with participants responding with the word “Heil”, which means “Hail”, creating a show of submission and support for the regime.

This simple but powerful gesture, that became synonymous with the oppressive regime, was carried out at rallies where the crowds would shout “Heil Hitler”.

The Roman salute

While the Nazi salute is the most well-known form of the Roman salute, it is important to distinguish between the two. The Roman salute was originally a sign of respect and loyalty in ancient Rome, far removed from the oppressive connotations of the 20th-century Nazi version. However, the fascist use of the Roman salute, specifically, Mussolini’s fascist regime in Italy and Hitler’s Germany, altered its meaning.

According to Tales of Hi and Bye by Torbjörn Lundmark, “The Nazi salute was not invented by Adolf Hitler or Benito Mussolini, nor is it limited in time to the Second World War or in place to Europe. The salute dates all the way back to the Roman Empire and is properly known as the Roman salute (Saluto Romano)”.

In Nazi Germany, the outstretched arm became a social command, “not only in front of Hitler and military officers but everywhere in administrative, commercial and social settings”. The salute became an undeniable symbol of totalitarian control, reinforcing loyalty to the state and its ideologies.

Musk’s gesture in context

Given the historical baggage associated with this gesture, Musk’s action raised eyebrows. His earlier association with far-right politics, including his public support for the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, has amplified the concern surrounding his actions.