BROTHER JONATHANS Meaning and
Definition
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Brother Jonathans (singular: Brother Jonathan) is a term used to refer to the United States of America as a whole, often symbolizing the American people or its citizens. It is particularly associated with the late 18th century and the 19th century.
Originating from the character named Brother Jonathan in an anonymous play called "The Contrast," which premiered in 1787, the term became linked with the representation of American identity. Brother Jonathan was portrayed as a typical American, embodying their national characteristics and values, often depicted in satirical political cartoons and literature.
Over time, "Brother Jonathans" came to represent the average American citizens, embodying the cultural, societal, and political traits of the nation. It highlighted concepts such as liberty, individualism, resourcefulness, and ingenuity that were believed to define the American character.
Furthermore, "Brother Jonathan" became associated with the United States as a country itself, analogous to Uncle Sam, representing the federal government. The term was often used in political satire and caricatures to depict America as a whole. Although less commonly used in recent times, Brother Jonathan remains part of the historical lexicon associated with early American cultural identity.
In summary, Brother Jonathans is a term that symbolically represents the American people, their values, and the United States as a nation, originating from a character in a play and transforming into an embodiment of American national identity over time.
Common Misspellings for BROTHER JONATHANS
- vrother jonathans
- nrother jonathans
- hrother jonathans
- grother jonathans
- beother jonathans
- bdother jonathans
- bfother jonathans
- btother jonathans
- b5other jonathans
- b4other jonathans
- brither jonathans
- brkther jonathans
- brlther jonathans
- brpther jonathans
- br0ther jonathans
- br9ther jonathans
- brorher jonathans
- brofher jonathans
- brogher jonathans
- broyher jonathans
Etymology of BROTHER JONATHANS
The term "Brother Jonathans" is a nickname for the people of the United States, particularly during the early years of the nation's history. It originated in the late 18th century and has its roots in the biblical story of Jonathan and David.In the Old Testament, Jonathan was the son of King Saul and a close friend and ally of David, who would eventually become king himself. Their friendship was characterized by loyalty and support for one another. In the story, Jonathan helped David escape from the wrath of Saul by warning him of his father's intentions.During the American Revolutionary War, France was a key ally to the United States, providing support in the form of soldiers, supplies, and financial aid. The French saw an association between the biblical relationship of Jonathan and David with the alliance between the United States and France. This led to the French referring to the Americans as "Brother Jonathan", representing a friendly and supportive relationship.
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