Fasces

Fasces (English: /ˈfæsiːz/ FASS-eez; Latin: [ˈfaskeːs], from the Latin word fascis, meaning "bundle";[1] Italian: fascio littorio) is a bundle of wooden rods, sometimes showing an axe blade. The fasces is an Italian symbol originated from the Etruscan civilization and was passed on to ancient Rome.

A fasces image, with the axe in the middle of the bundle of rods

Symbolism

In Ancient Rome, fasces symbolized a magistrate's power and jurisdiction.

During early 20th century, the fasces was used to represent fascism. The symbol was used by the National Fascist Party of Benito Mussolini.

  • Unofficial coat of arms of France
  • Emblem of the Spanish Civil Guards

References
  1. Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary Archived 2007-09-30 at the Wayback Machine: fasces
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