The symbolism behind the red scarf (PHOTOS)

The red scarf is a neckerchief worn by young pioneers of several countries during the socialist (“communist”) era.It remains in use by the young pioneers of China. In China, the scarf is emblematic of blood of revolutionary martyrs, as recalled in Red Scarf Park and the title of Red Scarf Girl by Ji-li Jiang about her experiences during the Cultural Revolution. In Cuba, the scarf is worn by schoolchildren from first to sixth grade.