The AK-47 has come to represent resistance against superior power throughout much of the developing world. It is a symbol of revolution and defiance – freedom for the commoner from suppression. Its widespread manufacture and cheap production cost has placed it in the hands of resistance movement fighters the worldwide. The ubiquitous picture of the revolutionary, AK-47 in hand, fighting for their cause against all odds, facing a technologically and numerically superior enemy funded by the regime in power, is a powerful form of political propaganda. It is an image that inspires hope - hope that is galvanized by victories past, of freedom fighters from conflicts long ago and continents far away.[1]
Coat of Arms - AK-47 Symbolism
Kalashnikov’s rifle has moved beyond its original functionality as simply a weapon and has become equally powerful for its inspirational qualities. It represents ultimate victory against long odds, despite great adversity, and has been commemorated in a myriad of national symbols. Coats of arms, flags, and national monuments spanning the globe are adorned with the AK-47 – this symbolism certainly projecting far beyond what Kalashnikov had envisioned in 1947.
In National Flags
The national flag of Mozambique is stylized after the flag used following independence from its colonial sovereign Portugal. The emblem encompassing the AK-47 was chosen by Mozambique's first government to represent the nations struggle for independence. Numerous referendums have been held to redesign the flag, however, national sentiment has been opposed to any change. The AK-47 remains a part of the national flag of Mozambique.[5]
Commemoration in Monuments
Managua, Nicaragua - El Guerrillero sin Nombre (The Nameless Guerrilla Soldier) - This monument sits in the capital Managua and recognizes the sacrifice of the countless Sandanista (FSLN) peasant soldiers who fought for freedom against the government during Nicaragua's Contra War in the early 1980's. In one hand the revolutionary wields a pick-axe and in the other an AK-47. The association of a farmer's field tool and the AK-47 is often made; representing the farmer-soldier nature of those who wield the weapon. The FSLN maintains political control in Nicaragua to this day.[6]
Ismailia, Egypt - monument of the Battle of Ismailia - The monument was built to commemorate the Egyptian victory over Israeli forces during the Yom Kippur War in October, 1973. The Egyptian military, armed with AK-47's, turned away Israeli forces armed with more advanced weaponry on the outskirts of the town.[7]
Ismailia, Egypt - monument of the Battle of Ismailia - The monument was built to commemorate the Egyptian victory over Israeli forces during the Yom Kippur War in October, 1973. The Egyptian military, armed with AK-47's, turned away Israeli forces armed with more advanced weaponry on the outskirts of the town.[7]