What is the origin of the spit handshake
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What is the origin of the spit handshake
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The origin of the spit handshake is uncertain, but some believe it originated in the 1920s as a way to show trust between people. The idea is that when two people spit into their hands and shake, the spit becomes a physical symbol of the trust between them.
Explanation
The origin of the spit handshake is an important part of understanding the significance of the gesture today. The handshake is a way of showing trust between two people, and it is thought to have originated in the 1920s. This is important because it shows that the handshake has been used as a sign of trust for centuries.
In addition to the origin of the spit handshake, it is also important to consider the implications of the gesture. The handshake is a physical symbol of trust, and it is often used to demonstrate loyalty or commitment between two people. It can also be used to show respect, friendship, and camaraderie.
The spit handshake also has implications for the ways in which people interact. It is a physical gesture that allows two people to connect without having to say anything, and it can be used to create a bond between two people. It is important to consider the implications of the handshake because it can have a profound effect on relationships.
Finally, it is important to consider the cultural implications of the handshake. In some cultures, the handshake is a sign of respect and trust, while in others it is seen as offensive. It is important to be aware of the cultural implications of the gesture when using it in different contexts.
Pliny the Elder:
“It was believed that if a man assaulted another with a fist or projectile and then spit in the palm of the offending hand, the victim would forgive him.”
I am assuming that over time this translated into a way of forgiving any previous disagreements and moving on as equals. It’s more modern use in sealing trade agreements seems to indicate that.
The ‘Spit Handshake’ originated around the 14th century in
modern day Czechoslovakia. Working class individuals often had dry
and callous hands due to hard labour, so when handshaking an
individual they experienced some pain. In fact there was an
account, (fabricated most likely) of two men’s hands spontaneously
conbusting due to the friction generated from their handshake. To
counter this pesky and common problem, Hans Spitstein developed the
‘Spit Handshake’ in which both parties would lubricate their hands
before commencing the act. Obviously as these were working class
men, oil was not readily available and so spit was used as a
replacement. Over time the act of spitting on one’s hand and
offering it became viewed as an act of respect and trust, involving
into the ‘Spit Handshake’ we know and love.
Sources: A Brief History of the Handshake