John Bull meaning

John Bull definitions

Who is John Bull?

John Bull is a national personification of Britain in general and England in particular. He is typically portrayed as a stout, middle-aged man wearing a top hat and a Union Jack waistcoat. John Bull first appeared in political cartoons and literature in the 18th century, becoming a symbol of the English national character.

Origin of John Bull

The character of John Bull was created by Dr. John Arbuthnot, a Scottish physician and satirist, in 1712. Arbuthnot used John Bull to represent some of the common stereotypes associated with the English - including their supposed honesty, bluntness, and love of beef. Over time, the character of John Bull evolved to become a symbol of the British nation as a whole, not just England.

Characteristics of John Bull

John Bull is typically depicted as a shrewd, honest, and straightforward man who is fiercely patriotic and protective of his country. He is often shown in political cartoons standing up to foreign threats or meddling politicians, representing the British people's resilience and determination.

Legacy of John Bull

John Bull has remained a popular symbol in British culture, appearing in literature, theater, and political commentary for centuries. His image has been used to represent British identity, values, and attitudes in various contexts. While the character of John Bull may be seen by some as outdated or simplistic, he continues to be an enduring and recognizable figure in the cultural imagery of the United Kingdom.

symbol and British are two words closely associated with John Bull, representing his role as a national figure. honesty and patriotic are two qualities often attributed to the character of John Bull, shaping his portrayal in popular culture.

John Bull Examples

1. John Bull is a personification of England found in literature and political cartoons.
2. The pub down the street is named John Bull Tavern.
3. My grandfather's name is John, but we call him John Bull for short.
4. The national symbol of England is often referred to as John Bull.
5. In history class, we learned about the character John Bull representing the British people.
6. I dressed up as John Bull for a themed party celebrating British culture.
7. The famous artist depicted John Bull in his painting as a symbol of patriotism.
8. John Bull's image has been used in advertisements for British products for decades.
9. The phrase "proud to be a John Bull" is commonly used by patriotic English citizens.
10. The statue of John Bull stands tall in the town square as a symbol of national pride.

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