Here are different definitions of the fasces

In ancient Rome the fasces wasthe symbol of the state over the individual. An encyclopedia describes a fasces as follows:

The fasces were cylindrical bundles of wooden rods, tied tightly together, from which an axe projected; they were borne by guards, called lictors, before praetors, consuls, proconsuls, dictators, and emperors. The fasces symbolized unity as well as power.

Modern fascism is derived from the Roman fasces. The central theme of fascism is that the individual must be bound to the will of the state which is the highest good. Fascism is also militaristic. Italian dictator Benito Mussolini, who was the first to use the word fascism to describe a political system, believed that countries that weren't expanding and making war were in decline. Perhaps our Skull and Bones President would share this belief in the "purgative power of combat," as might our House of Representatives which displays the fasces on the wall behind the speakers podium

(plural form of Latin fascis: “bundle”) in ancient Rome, insignia of official authority. It was carried by the lictors, or attendants, and was characterized by an ax head projecting from a bundle of elm or birch rods about 5 feet (1.5 metres) long and tied together with a red strap; it symbolized penal power. When carried inside Rome, the ax was removed (unless the magistrate was a dictator…

fasces

In ancient Rome, bundles of rods carried in procession by the lictors (minor officials) in front of the chief magistrates, as a symbol of the latter's power over the lives and liberties of the people. An axe was included in the bundle. The fasces were revived in the 20th century as the symbol of fascism.

This image is from a tomb in Saepina, Italy.

Fasces

The fasces were a Roman symbol of office introduced during the Royal Period by the Etruscans. They were a bundle of rods tied with red thongs. The inclusion of an axe indicated the presence of a magistrate who could inflict capital punishment. Within city limits, initially only a dictator had the right the inclusion of an axe. The number of lictors carrying fasces indicated the rank of an official.