Universal symbols have been used as a form of communication from the Bronze Age. With the adoption of written languages, symbols have come to represent an illustrated shorthand. Symbols are also used to impart quick, recognizable safety advice. There are many symbols of affiliation, not only to religious groups, but support of political causes or even brand loyalty. Symbols are used for identification, military markings and recognition of compatibility. They allow users to convey a large amount of information in a short space. And in the case of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics — the first Games to be held in an Asian country — symbols allowed the organizers to create event signage that wouldn’t be lost in translation. Organized chronologically, 100 Symbols That Changed The World looks at the genesis and adoption of the world’s most recognizable symbols.