The German swastika, also known as the Hakenkreuz, is a symbol that was adopted by the Nazi Party in Germany in the early 20th century. It consists of a black, four-armed swastika, rotated 45 degrees, on a white background. The swastika is an ancient symbol that has been used in many cultures throughout history, but it is most commonly associated with the Nazis and the atrocities they committed during World War II. In Germany, the display of the swastika is illegal, except for educational, artistic, or scientific purposes.