People all around the world have joined the wristband bandwagon. Rubber bracelets are as common today as were gold, silver and ornate jewelry worn around the wrists of folks in ancient civilizations. Millions of people display their commitment to the fight against diseases and social problems like breast cancer, prostrate cancer, child abuse, violence against women, diabetes, world hunger, global peace and other issues by wearing one or more rubber rings around their wrists.
Famous athletes, military personnel, moive stars and political figures are photograghed wearing rubber wristbands. Even President Barack Obama wore a rubber wristband briefly during the 2008 presidential campaign to draw attention to the men and women fighting in Iraq.
When wearing rubber bracelets first became popular in the early 2000’s, different colored wristbands were a tip- off to the cause the wearer supported. For example, a purple wrist band signified the fight against domestic violence, whereas pink rubber bracelets signified the desire to wipe out breast cancer. In 2004, world champion cyclist Lance Armstrong began his "Livestrong" campaign against cancer by a wearing a bright yellow band. Wristbands usually cost no more than $1 and as more and more charitable organizations join the wristband bandwagon, it is easy to find a rubber bracelet that will help you express your support of any cause.
In fact, students at Bellflower High School in Bellflower, California took wristbands for charity to another level. This semester they began making bracelets by stringing together colorful beads, to sell for $1 apiece. The students plan to donate the money earned to disadvantaged children in modern India, in need of surgery to repair cleft palates. On one recent afternoon, dedicated teens raised over $100 for the "Smile Train" organization by making and selling beaded wristbands.
Modern wristbands signal a fun and fashionable way to finance the combat against deadly situations. In ancient Rome, China, and India however, the wearing of bracelets was serious business.
In Greek culture, women would adorn their arms above and below the elbow with wrappings of gold or silver, perfect accents to their flowing gowns and elaborate hairstyles. Often these bracelets would be detailed with animals such as lions or snakes to ward off evil spirits. Conversely, Greek men wore metal or thick leather cuffs along the forearms to protect their arms during deadly fights on the battlefields.
For instance, in ancient China, kings and aristocrats wore bracelets with detailed designs including dragons and phoenixes as well as incorporating various metals with precious stones as a display of wealth and power. Bracelets were as much a part of an ancient Chinese king’s attire as his silk robes and head coverings.
Indian women in bygone eras, just as today, wore gold bangles to show that they are married. Many would wear multiple bangles of many materials, styles and colors for adornment and to symbolize their husband’s affluence.
