Elon Musk’s ‘Roman Salute’ at Trump’s inaugaration stirs confusion, social media frenzy
Elon Musk speech at President Donald J. Trump inauguration. Jan. 20, 2025. (Photo: Screenshot of live coverage)
Elon Musk, 53, the multi-billionaire behind Tesla, SpaceX, and X (formerly Twitter), confused many during his speech at President Donald J. Trump’s inauguration by doing a ‘Roman Salute’ on Monday, Jan. 20.
The ‘Roman Salute’ allegedly traces its origins to the Roman solar cult, also referred to as Mithras, with the extended arm to pay homage to the sun. The extension of the arm was used by various fascist movements, especially in Europe.
Musk is known for making bizarre moves, as witnessed multiple times across Trump’s presidential campaign season. Yet, numerous popular Turkish social media accounts and commentators shared their thoughts regarding the matter.
Elon Musk’s ‘Roman Salute’ speech at Trump’s inauguration
This is what victory feels like. And this was no ordinary victory; it was a fork in the road for human civilization. You know there are elections that come and go, some elections are important, some are not, but this one really mattered.
So, I want to say thank you for making it happen. [Roman Salute]. My heart goes out to you. It is thanks to you that the future of civilization is assured. We are going to have safe cities, finally safe cities, secure borders, sensible spending, and basic stuff. And we are going to take DOGE at Mars. I mean, can you imagine how awesome it will be to have American astronauts plant to flag on another planet for the first time…
As the president said, we are going to have a golden age. It is going to be fantastic. And one of the most fundamental things—one of the most American values I love—is optimism. And this feeling that we are going to make the future good. We are going to make it good…
Elon Musk
