Cheese-eating surrender monkeys

Cheese-eating surrender monkeys is a derogatory term used to describe French people, implying cowardice and a love for cheese, which are both stereotypes associated with France. The phrase was popularized in the early 1990s and has been used in various forms of media and political discourse.

Origin and usage

The term "cheese-eating surrender monkeys" first appeared in an episode of The Simpsons, a popular American animated television show. The phrase was coined by the character Groundskeeper Willie, a Scottish school janitor, during an episode that aired in 1995. It was intended as a humorous remark but later gained traction outside the context of the show, particularly in political and media circles in the United States.

The phrase combines two stereotypical elements:

• The reference to "cheese-eating" alludes to the well-known French affinity for cheese, as France is renowned for its variety of cheeses.
• The term "surrender monkeys" suggests a historical stereotype of French military defeats or perceived cowardice, particularly referencing the rapid defeat of France by Germany during World War II.

Cultural impact

The term has been used in various media outlets, often in a critical context to express dissatisfaction with French policies or actions, especially in relation to military or geopolitical issues. It gained significant attention during the lead-up to the Iraq War, when France's opposition to the war led to a surge in anti-French sentiment in some parts of the American public and media.

Despite its usage, the term has been widely criticized for perpetuating unfair and inaccurate stereotypes of the French people. It is considered offensive and derogatory, contributing to cultural misunderstandings and reinforcing national stereotypes.

See also

• Anti-French sentiment
• Stereotypes of the French
• The Simpsons