Uncle Sam: Difference between revisions
Truthseeker (talk | contribs) Created page with "'''Uncle Sam''' is a national personification of the United States, commonly depicted as a stern, bearded man in a star-spangled top hat, blue tailcoat, and red-and-white striped trousers. The figure is used to represent the U.S. government and American patriotism, most famously in the 1917 World War I recruitment poster captioned ''I Want YOU for U.S. Army'' by artist James Montgomery Flagg. == Origins == The name “Uncle Sam” is widely associated with Samuel Wilson..." |
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Revision as of 18:41, 18 August 2025
Uncle Sam is a national personification of the United States, commonly depicted as a stern, bearded man in a star-spangled top hat, blue tailcoat, and red-and-white striped trousers. The figure is used to represent the U.S. government and American patriotism, most famously in the 1917 World War I recruitment poster captioned I Want YOU for U.S. Army by artist James Montgomery Flagg.
Origins
The name “Uncle Sam” is widely associated with Samuel Wilson of Troy, New York, a meat packer who supplied provisions to U.S. forces during the War of 1812. Barrels marked “U.S.” were popularly said to stand for “Uncle Sam,” and the nickname spread in newspapers and political cartoons throughout the 19th century.
Iconography
- Attire: Top hat with white stars on a blue band; blue coat; red-and-white striped trousers.
- Pose: Extended forefinger pointing at the viewer (from Flagg’s poster), creating a direct call to action.
- Traits: Resolute expression symbolizing national will and mobilization.
Historical Usage
Uncle Sam has appeared in military recruitment, war bond campaigns, and civic messaging from the 19th century to the present. Political cartoonists have used the figure to comment on domestic policies, foreign affairs, and the national mood.
Cultural Impact
The character remains a shorthand for the U.S. government in journalism, advertising, and popular culture. The Flagg poster is among the most reproduced images in American history, and its composition has been adapted for numerous public campaigns.