Last modified: 2013-06-22 by pete loeser
Keywords: social democratic party | sozialdemokratische partei deutschlands | spd |
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Sources: Rabbow 1965 and Rabbow 1970.
Marcus Schmöger, 6 October 2001
The SPD in its early days (1863-1933) used basically two types of flags: 1) Plain red flags, and 2) Red flags with interlocked hands, oak wreaths, mottoes like freedom, equality, fraternity or unity makes strength and similar symbols of solidarity.
These latter type flags actually were Fahnen (Colours) of the local SPD organizations and varied much in the actual pattern. Many of these Fahnen of the local branches are still in existence, many having been made in the 1950's.
After 1945 the SPD reverted to its traditional red flags, usually containing the initials of the party in different font types. Especially striking was a campaign rally in 1953 in Frankfurt, when 104 brand new flags with black-edged golden letters 'SPD' were marched into the hall. However, this was too much red for the common public fearing the communists. So the colour red, and especially the display of red flags decreased significantly since then.
Marcus Schmöger, 6 October 2001
