Origin of the Peace Sign

I’ve been a graphic designer for over 20 years. Origins of symbols and logos have always fascinated me. Especially the ones that have staying power. Graphic design is all about communication. Communicating the “most with the least” is is done by designing logos, glyphs and symbols.

The “Peace” symbol was designed in 1958 by British artist, Gerald Holtman. Originally designed for a march protesting nuclear disarmament. (The protest was planned by the Direct Action Committee Against Nuclear War from London to the Atomic Weapons Research Establishment at Aldermaston in England.) The symbol was later adopted by the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament and has become a world wide symbol for peace.

The image is created using the letters “N” and “D” in the semaphore flag alphabet – N is created by someone holding the semaphore flags down and to the sides. The D is created by someone holding the semaphore flags, one straight and one straight down.

This may have started simple graphically displaying the initials “N” and “D” but over the years, this simple design really does communicate the most with the least. Where ever you are in the world, what ever language you speak – when you see that logo, you know what it means.

Just like the “V” sign made with the first two fingers spread open like a “V” with palm facing out, is internationally known. Where ever you go in the world – whenever you don’t speak the language, this sign will be understood.

During WWII, Winston Churchill popularized this gesture as a “victory” sign. And during the Vietnam war, it was used during pro-peace rallies and has been a “peace sign” every since.  

 

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