Scoutmaster's Corner The Scout Handshake Our Scout handshake is an ancient sign of bravery and respect. The left handshake comes to us from the Ashanti warriors whom Lord Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting, met almost 100 years ago in West Africa. He saluted them with his right hand, but the Ashanti chiefs offered their left hands and said, "In our land only the bravest of the brave shake hands with the left hand, because to do so we must drop our shields and our protection." The Ashantis knew of Baden-Powell's bravery because they had fought against him and with him, and they were proud to offer the left hand of bravery. Be sure to greet other Scouts in friendship by offering the Scout handshake. And when you do, remember that it is a sign of respect and courage.