National Handshake Day

Two people, one wearing a trendy hat and the other a traditional outfit, exchanging a friendly handshake in a vibrant urban setting.. — National handshake day illustration

What's the secret handshake for being hip and happening? Celebrating National Handshake Day, that's what! Crack a knuckle, stretch out those fingers, and prepare for a friendly exchange of greetings that transcends ages and cultures.

When is Handshake Day?

It's national handshake day on the 29th June.

A Brief History of National Handshake Day

The origin of National Handshake Day is just as friendly as the event itself. It's reported that 5476 occurrences of its mention were detected online, with the highest peak being on 29th June 2017. It's no surprise that people across the world wide web have been eagerly stretching out their hands for this friendly day of recognition.

How to Celebrate?

On National Handshake Day, the celebration is as simple as it sounds - shake hands! The handshake is an internationally recognized gesture of goodwill, so this is a perfect opportunity to bond with your fellow humans. Whether it's a firm grip or a friendly clasp, share a handshake with someone today - remember, it doesn't count if you don't make eye contact!

A Handful of Handshake Trivia

The handshake is more than just a way to say 'Hello' or 'Good Job'. It dates back to the 5th century B.C in Greece, where it was used as a symbol of peace, showing that neither person was carrying a weapon. Let's just say, nowadays, the stakes aren't quite as high, but the sentiment remains similar - it's all about positivity and connection!

History behind the term 'Handshake'

5th Century BC

Origins in Ancient Greece

The handshake dates back to ancient Greece, where it was believed to be a gesture of peace. As a form of communication, the handshake involved clasping hands and was a way to show that neither party was carrying a weapon. It was also seen as a symbol of trust and mutual respect.

2nd Century BC

Roman Influence and the Subtle Shake

During the Roman Empire, the handshake evolved to include a subtle shake of the hands. This subtle movement was used to check for the presence of hidden weapons in the sleeves or hands of the other person. The shake also had cultural significance, often used as a gesture of agreement or congratulations.

9th Century AD

The Middle Ages and the Arm Clasp

In the Middle Ages, the handshake transitioned to a more formal and elaborate gesture known as the arm clasp. During this time, people would grasp each other's right forearm with their left hand, symbolizing trust and loyalty. This gesture was often used to seal agreements and contracts.

17th Century

The Modern Handshake Emerges

The modern handshake that we are familiar with today began to emerge in the 17th century. This handshake involved a simple clasp of the hands, without the arm clasp or subtle shake. It became a common greeting among European aristocracy and was seen as a gesture of equal status and respect between individuals.

19th Century

Spread to North America

With the colonial expansion and the formation of the United States, the handshake made its way to North America. It quickly became the predominant greeting in business and social interactions. The handshake became a symbol of trust, professionalism, and equality, emphasizing the ideals of the young nation.

20th Century

Globalization and Variations

In the 20th century, with increased globalization, the handshake spread worldwide and underwent various cultural adaptations. Different regions developed their own variations, including variations in grip strength, duration, and accompanying gestures such as bowing or nodding. Despite the diversification, the handshake remained a universal symbol of respect and agreement in most cultures.

Did you know?

Did you know that some anthropologists believe the handshake was originally a gesture to check if the other person was hiding a weapon in their hand? Now, that's an icebreaker!