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Nazis killed 'good feelings' associated with 3,000-year-old emblem

Ancient cultures used the swastika in artwork and design centuries before it became the nefarious symbol of Nazi Germany.

Matthew Hyland, professor of history at Duquesne University, said the symbol dates to Neolithic times — as far back as 3,000 years — and mainly was a symbol of good luck.

"Essentially, it's like a good luck charm, sort of a portentous symbol of good feelings," he said.

Hyland said archeologists found the swastika design on ancient pottery, jewelry and other relics. The Hindu and Buddhist religions used it, and it was popular among American Indian cultures before it became a hate symbol....
Read entire article at Pittsburgh Tribune-Review