Modern Use of "Old Republic" Flags
In recent years, South Africa has seen a controversial resurgence in the display of flags from the "old republics" of Transvaal and Orange Free State. These symbols of the past have been repurposed by right-wing organizations, stirring up painful memories and sparking public debates about the line between heritage and hate.
Afrikaner Weerstangsbeweging (AWB)
The Afrikaner Weerstangsbeweging or AWB is a right-wing neo-Nazi organization that has adapted "old republic" flags to represent its cause. The organization's emblem, consisting of three black number sevens, is often prominently displayed on these flags.
AWB's Former Flag
The AWB's initial flag included a four-pointed star with a stylised "AW" running through it, believed to represent the unity of the Afrikaner people.
AWB's Alternative Flag (in Transvaal)
An adaptation of the Transvaal Vierkleur, the AWB occasionally utilized a flag showcasing the emblematic triple sevens on the white stripe, connecting the symbol to a storied past.
Boere Weersdandsbeweging (BWB)
The Boere Weersdandsbeweging or BWB is another such group that has used distinct flags to symbolize its platform.
BWB's First Flag
The original BWB flag featured a black background with a white cross, red fimbriation, and three black sevens inside of a central white circle.
BWB's Second Flag
Under new leadership, the BWB's flag was altered to display the initials "BWB" rather than the sevens, though the design layout remained similar to the first.
African Student Federation
Even amongst younger demographics such as those in the African Student Federation, symbols with white supremacist connotations, like the odal rune, have surfaced, signaling the persistent relevance and challenge of these ideologies.
Combining Travel with Historical Awareness
While South Africa is a popular travel destination known for its rich history and diverse landscapes, it's important for visitors to be aware of the sensitive historical and current issues related to the flags and symbols they might encounter. Understanding the complex narratives behind these symbols can be an integral part of responsible and informed travel in the region.
Durham
Las Vegas
Peschiera del Garda
Egham
Agadir
Morro Jable (Fuerteventura)
Amsterdam
Punta Cana
Albufeira
Elounda (Crete)
Philadelphia
Denver
Lake Buena Vista
Perth
Melbourne
Houston
Gibraltar
Ixia (Rhodes)
Nassau
Lake George
Boise
Grand Junction
Arlington
Ibiza Town
Inglewood
Pigeon Forge
Bedford
Los Angeles
- Ac Hotel Beverly Hills
- Best Places To Stay In La Area
- All Inclusive Resorts Los Angeles Area
- Los Angeles California Luxury Hotels
New Orleans
Springwood
Bowness-on-Windermere
Playa Blanca (Lanzarote)
Orangeville
Secaucus
Beaverton
Virginia Beach
Mount Laurel
Jasper
Saint Helier
Dunoon
Osoyoos
Brandon
Dallas
Anaheim
Oxon Hill
Cedar Park
Grasonville
Tampa
Athens
Paris
Venice
Prague
London
Brighton
Madrid
Tokyo
Dubai
Barcelona
Singapore
Toronto
Manchester
Berlin
New York
Cancun
Sydney
- Burwood Bed And Breakfast Sydney
- Best Luxury Hotels Sydney
- Beach Resorts In Sydney Australia
- Apartment Hotel Sydney Darling Harbour
Chicago
- Best Location To Stay In Chicago
- Hotels Downtown Chicago Pet Friendly
- Downtown Chicago Hotels With Indoor Swimming Pools