The Hammer in the Communist Symbol: Understanding Its Type and Significance

The hammer in the iconic hammer and sickle symbol represents the working class, particularly the industrial laborers who work with metal and machinery in the industrial society. This symbol evokes the unity and power of workers in pursuit of a communist society. The sickle, on the other hand, symbolizes the agricultural working class, including peasants and farmers. Together, the hammer and sickle signify the alliance between industrial and agricultural workers.

As a blacksmith, the hammer used in the communist symbol is a forging hammer specifically designed for shaping hot iron and metal. This type of hammer is perfect for the symbol used on the flags of many communist parties around the world.

Types of Blacksmith's Hammer Used

The hammer that appears in the hammer and sickle symbol is undoubtedly a blacksmith’s hammer rather than a carpenter’s hammer. The back end of a blacksmith’s hammer is a narrow striking edge, not a claw for pulling nails. It is also considerably heavier, weighing between two and three pounds (1 to 1.5 kilos). This hammer is specifically designed to work with hot iron and shape it into various forms.

European Blacksmith's Hammer

A European blacksmith’s or locksmith’s cross peen hammer is the type frequently seen in symbols and flags. This hammer is primarily used in Central Europe. Variants of this hammer include the German blacksmith’s hammer and the German locksmith’s hammer. The Swedish blacksmith’s hammer has a similar design but with some slight variations. The French blacksmith’s hammer, while visually similar, has its own distinct characteristics.

East Germany's Symbolic Modification

East Germany used a hammer and dividers instead of a sickle, which was symbolic of their more advanced technology. At the time, East Germany considered itself more industrial than agricultural. This change in the symbol reflected their technological progress and emphasis on industry.

Metaphorical Use of Sledgehammer and Sickle

The hammer and sickle are often metaphorically linked to the sledgehammer and sickle, suggesting a tool for crushing and cutting. In the context of the Soviet Union, this imagery is often associated with the brutal repression and purges under Stalinist rule. During the existence of the USSR (74 years), the soviet socialist rulers indeed crushed and cut about 30-40 million people, and another 50 million died due to conflicts, including World War II, which the USSR contributed to starting with their ally Hitler.

Regular Industrial Hammer

Moreover, the hammer used in the context of industrial activities can be a regular industrial hammer. These hammers are designed to be used with steel and other metals, making them suitable for heavy-duty tasks in industrial settings.