Origin of uncle sam.....
- Thread starter sonny
- Start date
- Status
SodaPop
member
C.R. Sam
Stickjockey
Member
IIRC, it started during the Civil War. The Union Stamped all military material with "U.S." so everyone would know it was gov't property. Legend was that someone asked what the initials stood for, and someone answered "Uncle Sam." and an American icon was born.
Of course, this is probably just one story. Sort of like how the Willys MB/Ford GPW became the "jeep".
Of course, this is probably just one story. Sort of like how the Willys MB/Ford GPW became the "jeep".
I did have my curiosity piqued by this very same issue some months ago; and finally performed some research.
Actually, it was the Revolution, I believe; and the gentleman who provided for the troops looked NOTHING like the various caricatures we're familiar with today. IIRC, his provisions were obtained on credit; and patriotism.
Forgot the reason for the first caricature; then there were others before the popularity waned. Became a BIG thing during WW1; finally one artist penned one that met with almost universal appeal.
THAT'S the one I use for my wallpaper.
How's that?
Edited to add that I admit my ignorance on how to add the image to my post; with computers, and most other technology, I fail to
"learn all about it" unless I NEED it. Now I do; and will make the attempt (eventually).
Actually, it was the Revolution, I believe; and the gentleman who provided for the troops looked NOTHING like the various caricatures we're familiar with today. IIRC, his provisions were obtained on credit; and patriotism.
Forgot the reason for the first caricature; then there were others before the popularity waned. Became a BIG thing during WW1; finally one artist penned one that met with almost universal appeal.
THAT'S the one I use for my wallpaper.
How's that?
Edited to add that I admit my ignorance on how to add the image to my post; with computers, and most other technology, I fail to
"learn all about it" unless I NEED it. Now I do; and will make the attempt (eventually).
- Status
