"The swastika is humanity's oldest, most widespread symbol of any
complexity. The name is derived from a Sanskrit word that means "object
of well-being." Originating some 6000 years ago in the Middle East, the
symbol had spread over Europe and parts of Asia by the early centuries of
the Christian Era. In recent times, the Third Reich, exploiting the
symbol's mysterious magical power, impressed the swastika into the
consciousness of the world... Because of the association of the swastika
with Nazism, the nations most affected by the Second World War regard it
as a symbol of barbarity. But apart from this recent, menancing aspect,
which covers only one percent of its history, the swastika is a powerful
sign of good luck. This quality, its magical aura, and its symbolism have
roots in the most ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia and Iran. In
India, where it is widely used in Hindu ceremonials and as a decorative
motif, the swastika combines astronomical and religious symbolism..."
The article goes on to describe uses of the swastika and its diffusion
throughout the world over the past 6000 years. It appears that, with one
major exception, the swastika is a symbol of things positive, and one
believed to embody great power - no doubt why Hitler chose it to
represent his movement.
