Elon Musk, the influential entrepreneur and CEO of multiple high-profile companies, sparked controversy following a gesture during a speech celebrating the inauguration of Donald Trump. This incident occurred at the Capital One Arena in Washington, DC, where Musk made a one-armed gesture that some have likened to a Nazi salute. The gesture ignited a flurry of reactions on X, the social media platform owned by Musk himself.
Andrea Stroppa, a close confidant of Musk, added fuel to the fire by posting a clip of the gesture on X with the caption, “Roman Empire is back starting from Roman salute.” The Roman salute, historically associated with Benito Mussolini’s Fascist Party in Italy and later adopted by Adolf Hitler in Germany, raised concerns among many observers. Claire Aubin, a historian specializing in Nazism within the United States, and Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a history professor at New York University, both identified Musk’s gesture as resembling a Nazi salute.
“Historian of fascism here. It was a Nazi salute and a very belligerent one too” – Ruth Ben-Ghiat
In response to the backlash, Musk took to X to dismiss the criticism, stating:
“Frankly, they need better dirty tricks. The ‘everyone is Hitler’ attack is sooo tired.” – Elon Musk
Musk’s recent political affiliations have also drawn attention. He has become a close ally of Donald Trump and has been appointed to co-lead what the president has termed the Department of Government Efficiency. His political views have notably shifted to the right, with statements in support of Germany’s far-right AfD party and British anti-immigration party Reform UK.
Despite the controversy, some have defended Musk. The Anti-Defamation League, an organization dedicated to combating anti-Semitism, suggested that Musk’s gesture may have been misinterpreted.
“It seems that Elon Musk made an awkward gesture in a moment of enthusiasm, not a Nazi salute” – Anti-Defamation League
During his speech at the inauguration rally, Musk expressed gratitude to the crowd, acknowledging their role in what he described as securing the future of civilization.
“My heart goes out to you. It is thanks to you that the future of civilisation is assured” – Elon Musk
Stroppa’s post was eventually removed, as reported by Italian media. The incident has underscored the complexities surrounding public figures like Musk and their influence in both business and politics.
Author’s Opinion
The incident involving Elon Musk at the Trump inauguration rally serves as a vivid illustration of how gestures and symbols can be loaded with historical and political significance. In a time where every action can be magnified through social media, public figures must navigate their public appearances with care to avoid misinterpretations that could fuel controversy. This episode highlights the delicate balance that leaders in technology and business must maintain in their interactions with the political sphere.
Featured image credit: FMT
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