41: Red Hats – Revolution, Resistance, and a Knitted Symbol

In this Stranded Thought, Anne reflects on the power of symbols – and why a simple knitted red hat has carried meaning across centuries. The episode moves from the red caps of ancient Rome to the bonnet rouge of the French Revolution, and then to Norway during the Second World War, where red knitted hats became a quiet but powerful symbol of resistance. Anne shares personal family history from the Norwegian resistance, including the events of April 9th, 1940, when German forces entered Norway via the Oslofjord, and how the delay of the warship Blücher made it possible for the Norwegian king and government to escape. The episode also explores how red hats were later officially banned by occupying forces – a reminder of how much meaning a handmade object can carry. This is a reflection on knitting, history, heritage, and why symbolic acts – even quiet ones – matter.