The "Peace" Sign

In the U.S., the peace sign hand gesture—formed by raising the index and middle fingers in a "V" shape—primarily symbolizes peace, harmony, and goodwill. Its roots trace back to anti-war movements, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s, where it became a hallmark of counterculture protests, especially against the Vietnam War.

Over time, it has evolved into a casual gesture representing friendliness or positivity, often used in photos or casual interactions. It’s also associated with the “victory” sign, especially in contexts like sports or achievements.

In Australia, the peace sign is commonly understood to mean peace or victory when the palm faces outward, similar to its use in the U.S. However, when the palm is turned inward toward the speaker, it is considered rude or offensive, equivalent to giving someone the middle finger. This dual meaning is influenced by British cultural heritage.

A well-known example of this confusion occurred during a 1992 visit by U.S. President George H.W. Bush to Australia. While attempting to make a friendly peace gesture, he mistakenly displayed the sign with the palm inward, unintentionally offending some Australians. The incident demonstrated the cultural differences in interpreting hand gestures.

In China, the peace sign carries multiple meanings depending on the context. It is widely recognized as a gesture for the number two, reflecting its practical use in daily interactions, such as ordering food or indicating a quantity. At the same time, it is heavily popularized as a cheerful pose in photos, particularly among younger generations and social media users. This use of the gesture in photography is inspired by broader East Asian trends, where it symbolizes positivity, playfulness, and a lighthearted attitude.

Unlike in Western cultures, the gesture does not have historical or political associations in China, focusing instead on casual, everyday communication and modern social norms.