Iron Cross Tattoo Meaning
Iron cross tattoo meaning
(at-a-glance):
- Heraldry
- Loyalty
- Honor
- Faith
- Courage
- Bravery
- Loyalty
- Will
- Liberation
Often interchanged with the Maltese cross, the iron cross tattoo meaning has its roots with King Friedrich Wilhelm the third of Prussia in the mid 1800s. The King commanded this stylized cross as a symbol of bravery and honorary medals bearing the iron cross were awarded to brave soldiers during the War of Liberation.
Adolph Hitler adopted the iron cross as a medal for his own officers. In fact, it was the only major decoration awarded by the Nazis before the Third Reich.
The iron cross has some rebellious symbolism associated with it, and worn by certain people it conveys a message of nonconformity or – more accurately a “f*ck off” message to “the man” or the “establishment.”
Perhaps its association with Nazi Germany that popularized the iron cross tattoo with more rebellious groups of people who wish to convey this edgy message. Bikers, skinheads and hardcore niches often adorn themselves with the iron (or Maltese) cross to snub noses at conventionalism. In this context the iron cross may also convey a revolt against following the masses. Rather, the cross is a symbol expressing a rage against common thought & to be militant in the pursuit of individual thought/action.
On a lighter note the iron cross tattoo meaning is redeemed when we see it in civic departments to acknowledge bravery on duty. Fire and Police organizations often utilize this cross to show commendable service and incredible bravery on the job. In these instances, the iron cross is a symbol of iron-will required to protect the community.
See also:
A very interesting article on iron cross tattoos and their significance. It was interesting to know that Hitler adopted these tattoos as medals for his officers.