SYMBOLS THAT HAVE CHANGED MEANING

The southern cross has originally been seen as a symbol representing the constelation that sits in the centre of the milky way throughout the southern hemisphere, Formally known as the crux. Today it is used as a symbol of branding throughout Australia standing for national pride and in some cases racism.
Once seen as disrespectful and degrading when transferred between people, now used as a common gesture between a circle of friends.
Used throughout surfing culture to abbreviate the phrase "Yew". It is also known throughout Hawaiian culture as the "Shaka" sign. Can also be used to represent a gesture between smokers.
This Symbol has two meanings, the first being piss of when viewed this way. If it was to be flipped it could also be seen as a Symbol of peace.


The swastika is a common symbol in many Eastern religions but was also adapted by the Nazis as a symbol of power. Once used to represent harmony is frowned upon throughout society. the symbol is also adapted by Neo-Nazis or skin heads.

Symbols tend to change meaning as life goes on but and society adapts to this usually with comfort or in some cases an uproar of disgust. As generations go on, something that could have once be seen as a symbol of disregard or hate could soon be transformed into something with a completely new meaning once again.