The Serbian Three-Finger Salute: Myths Debunked
Often associated with nationalist fervor, the Serbian three-finger salute is a gesture that has become a contentious topic in discussions about Serbian history and culture. Some insist it is a fascist symbol, rooted in nationalist ideologies, while others argue it is merely a modern misinterpretation of an outdated salute made popular by political figures and not reflective of any historical Serbian tradition. This article aims to debunk common myths and provide historical context.
Origins and Context
The Serbian three-finger salute, often associated with pro-etnik (ethnic nationalist) politicians like Vuk Drakovi?, began in the early 1990s when Yugoslav communism collapsed. During this tumultuous period, many nationalist leaders, including Drakovi?, adopted symbolic gestures to assert their political and cultural narratives.
Drakovi?, a prominent pro-etnik politician, invented the three-finger salute for several reasons. He wanted to differentiate himself from other leaders and create a unique symbol for his political movement. In a demonstration in 1991, he used this gesture to symbolize his three demands, adding to the visual prominence of the salute. This gesture became a recognizable symbol in Serbian political discourse, making it a frequent sight during nationalist rallies and demonstrations.
Historical Context and Misconceptions
While the three-finger salute is often linked to pro-etnik politics, it is not deeply rooted in Serbian history. Many of the historical symbols attributed to Serbia, such as flags and crests, have been the subject of revisionist claims. For example, the cross with four S's, which is often seen as a Serbian emblem, is actually a symbol from Byzantine times. The dominant B on these crests was later painted to look like the Serbian S, leading to confusion and misinterpretation over time.
Similarly, the double-headed white eagle, which is commonly seen on Serbian national symbols, is not a Nemanjic symbol. The misconception arises from the fact that old frescoes and paintings may depict Serbian nobles wearing garb associated with Byzantine influence, but traditional Serbian flags were typically green and yellow with a triangular dot pattern, not the double-headed eagle.
Modern Misinterpretations and Contemporary Uses
One of the more recent and controversial claims is attributed to an amateur archeologist who invented the idea that a Venetian sword called Spada Sciavonesca is a Serbian sword. The mistake lies in the translation: Sciavone in Italian means Slavs, and since the Serbs are Slavs, this archeologist equated the sword with Serbian heritage. However, this claim doesn't hold historical weight and is based more on linguistic assumptions than factual evidence.
Another misinterpretation comes from modern Serbian painter Vladimir Stankovi?, who created a book titled "Serbian Knights". In this work, Stankovi? portrayed the Serbian army as Byzantine-inspired, with surcoats representing the Serbian flag. He depicted the opposing enemy as the Saracens (Turkish warriors), but omitted other historical enemies, such as Hungarians and Bulgarians. This selective portrayal further muddies the historical narrative, fostering a distorted image of Serbian history.
The Three-Finger Salute in Contemporary Serbia
The three-finger salute, now commonly known as the "Drakovi? salute," is often used by young people from rural areas as a form of defiance and rebellion against authority. It is also prevalent among football hooligans, who use this gesture as a rallying symbol. Despite its origins and the confusion surrounding its true meaning, the gesture has become deeply ingrained in Serbian youth culture as a badge of defiance and independence.
Given the complexity of Serbian history and the contentious nature of modern political movements, it is crucial to approach the three-finger salute with a critical eye. While the gesture holds symbolic significance for those invoking its use, understanding its historical context and the myths surrounding it is vital for a nuanced and informed perspective.
Conclusion
The Serbian three-finger salute is a multifaceted symbol with complex origins and meanings. While it has been co-opted and transformed by modern political movements, its true roots lie in the political climate of the 1990s and a desire to establish unique nationalist symbols. Understanding this context can help dispel myths and foster a more accurate understanding of Serbian history and culture.