About That Uncle Sam-- Part 3: Most Likely Was Sam Wilson

The true origin of Uncle Sam is disputed, but a resolution of Congress in 1961 declared that an upstate New York meat packer and inspector named Sam Wilson was the original Uncle Sam.  He was a soldier during the American Revolution from Troy, New York,  and provided rations to American troops during the War of 1812.

It is not known whether Wilson's appearance was the inspiration for Uncle Sam's appearance, but James Montgomery Flagg's depiction of the man has certainly stood the test of time.

Flagg's Uncle Sam was used again during World War II.

I had a copy of Flagg's Uncle Sam up in my classroom with the words "For the U.S. Army" covered up and the words "To Do Your Homework" written.  I told my students that no matter where they were in the room, he was looking and pointing directly at them.  I often winder how many stared at him.

--Brock-Perry

"Uncle Sam" Came From the War of 1812

From Task & Purpose "How Uncle Sam Became An American Icon" by Sarah Sicard.

In a widely accepted story, in 1813, a man from Troy, New York, Samuel Wilson, worked as a meat packer/distributor of beef for the U.S. Army.  When the meat was packaged in barrels, he would stamp "U.S." on the barrel for "United States."

Soldiers, however began referring to the beef as "Uncle Sam's" and it stuck as a nickname for the federal government.

--Brock-Perry