How did the hand salute originate?

The hand salute is widely believed to have originated from traditions among warriors in armor, particularly during times when knights would raise their helmet visors to reveal their faces to one another. This action signified a peaceful interaction and mutual recognition between individuals, especially in a military context. By lifting the visor, a knight was demonstrating trust and respect, indicating that they were not concealing any weapons or hostile intentions beneath their armor.

This practice evolved over time into the modern hand salute seen in many armed forces today, serving as a respectful greeting between service members. The historical context of armor and helmets is integral to understanding the salute's origins, as it reflects the customs of the time related to honor and recognition among combatants. The association with armor and its ceremonial significance contributes to the salute's role in military protocols and traditions.