Uncle Sam

J. M. Flagg, I Want You for U.S. Army poster (1917)

ColumbiaStahrArtwork

Uncle Sam's Thanksgiving Dinner (November 1869), by Thomas Nast

Uncle Sam Wilson

Uncle Sam and His "Oyster Sandwiches"

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Putting his foot down

Uncle Sam is a national personification of the United States and one of its most iconic symbols. The figure of Uncle Sam represents the government and the spirit of the United States, often characterized by his distinctive attire featuring a top hat, blue tailcoat, and red and white striped trousers. The image of Uncle Sam has been used in various propaganda, advertising, and recruitment posters, especially during times of war.

Origins

The exact origins of Uncle Sam are not entirely clear, but the character is believed to have originated during the War of 1812 between the United States and United Kingdom. One popular theory suggests that Uncle Sam was based on Samuel Wilson, a meat packer from Troy, New York, who supplied barrels of beef to the United States Army. The barrels were stamped with "U.S." for United States, but soldiers began referring to the food as coming from "Uncle Sam" Wilson. The local newspaper picked up on the story, and the character of Uncle Sam began to take on a life of its own, eventually becoming a symbol for the U.S. government.

Symbolism and Use

Throughout the years, Uncle Sam has been used to evoke a sense of nationalism and patriotism among the American public. Perhaps the most famous depiction of Uncle Sam is the "I Want YOU for U.S. Army" recruitment poster from World War I, created by artist James Montgomery Flagg. This image shows Uncle Sam pointing directly at the viewer, making a personal appeal to join the military effort. The poster was widely distributed and has become an enduring symbol of both Uncle Sam and American recruitment efforts.

Uncle Sam is also used in political cartoons and commentary, representing the U.S. government's actions and policies. In this context, Uncle Sam can be a figure of either pride or criticism, depending on the viewpoint of the artist or writer.

Cultural Impact

Uncle Sam has transcended his origins to become a recognizable figure worldwide, symbolizing the United States itself. He appears in various forms of media, including literature, comics, film, and television, often used to comment on American politics, culture, and society. The character has also been adapted and parodied in numerous ways, reflecting the diverse opinions about the U.S. and its government.

Legal Status

In 1961, the U.S. Congress passed a resolution recognizing Samuel Wilson as "the progenitor of America's national symbol of Uncle Sam." The character of Uncle Sam is in the public domain, but specific depictions, such as James Montgomery Flagg's recruitment poster, may still be protected by copyright laws.

See Also

• Lady Liberty
• Bald Eagle
• American Flag
• National symbols of the United States