Few Americans tip their hats today, partly because etiquette has loosened and partly because they don't wear hats. Until the 1950s, however, men commonly tipped their hats to women, and removed them entirely indoors and in elevators. (In 1949, the first known guidelines for elevator etiquette were issued: men were told to leave their hats on because too many women were complaining of knocks on their heads when men saluted in crowds.) But in the 18th century it was not considered bad manners to wear their hats indoors. A man would take it off to greet a lady, but then he would put it right back on his head. The reason for doing so is perfectly plain. In the first place, the hat served as a badge of rank through most of the history, a visible mark of status. This tradition may have its roots in Roman times. In ancient Rome, a head covering was a symbol of social or political superiority. In the second place, one could not draw a sword easily if he was holding the hat in his hand.

Just as covering the head symbolized dominance, so uncovering it symbolized submission. Ever since the early Middle Ages, to remove one's hat -- whether it was made of cloth or metal -- has signified obedience. The original sense of the custom is mirrored in the expressions "with hat in hand" (which means "showing excessive respect, and too eager to obey and serve",) and "I take my hat off to him" (which means "I express my admiration for him.")