Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, SpaceX, and owner of the social media platform X, found himself at the center of controversy after his appearance at Donald Trump’s inauguration event. Musk’s salute during his speech at the Capital One Arena sparked widespread debate, with critics likening it to the infamous Nazi salute. Social media erupted with videos and commentary dissecting the gesture, raising questions about its intent and historical connotations.
What is the Nazi salute, and why is it controversial?
The Nazi salute, also known as the “Sieg Heil” or Roman salute, involves raising the right arm with the palm facing downward. Historically, it was adopted by the Nazi Party in Germany under Adolf Hitler as a symbol of allegiance and power. According to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), the gesture became a key symbol of white supremacy and antisemitism during and after World War II.
Its use today is universally condemned as a hate symbol, and any instance resembling it often triggers public outcry. Critics argue that Musk’s gesture, whether intentional or not, echoes these troubling associations.
Did Elon Musk perform a Nazi salute?
During his speech, Musk vigorously addressed Trump supporters, praising their efforts in securing what he described as “the future of civilization.” At one point, he struck his chest with his right hand before extending his arm in a diagonal upward motion with his palm facing downward—an action some interpreted as mimicking the Nazi salute.
Observers quickly noted the similarities to the historical gesture, with many questioning whether it was intentional or coincidental. The gesture was repeated twice during the speech, amplifying the backlash online.
Elon Musk goes masks off and does a Nazi salute. pic.twitter.com/GqAtDyWYLg
— Anonymous (@YourAnonCentral) January 20, 2025
Why did Elon Musk make the controversial gesture?
Musk’s speech, intended to energize Trump’s supporters, included themes of “safe cities, secure borders, and sensible spending.” He also referenced the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a federal cost-cutting initiative he leads under Trump’s administration. Musk’s animated delivery, including mimed actions such as planting an American flag on Mars, appeared aimed at evoking enthusiasm. However, the controversial gesture overshadowed the content of his speech.
Critics argue that Musk’s theatricality crossed a line, while others suggest that the gesture may have been an unfortunate coincidence. The lack of immediate clarification from Musk has fueled speculation.
What is the Roman salute, and how does it relate to Musk’s gesture?
The Roman salute predates the Nazi era, originating in the Roman Empire as a symbol of unity and power. It was later appropriated by fascist movements, most notably by Mussolini in Italy and Hitler in Nazi Germany. According to the University of Cambridge, the Nazi Party officially adopted the salute in 1933, and it became a hallmark of their ideology.
Haaretz, an Israeli newspaper, described Musk’s action as resembling a Roman salute, emphasizing its association with fascist regimes. The blurred line between historical context and modern interpretation has reignited debates about the gesture’s use in public settings.
