It is said that the inspiration for the character of Uncle Sam was a man named Sam Wilson, who provided food for the U.S. Army during the War of 1812. By the 1830s, the figure of Uncle Sam had become a personified image of America, commonly used by newspaper and magazine cartoonists to represent the U.S. government's decisions and policies. Perhaps the best-known image of Uncle Sam was created in 1917, during the First World War—a stern, white-haired man wearing star-spangled clothing, encouraging Americans to do their part to support their nation. Uncle Sam remains an important symbol of the United States and the policies and activities of our government.

Was there really an Uncle Sam? Yes! He was Samuel Wilson, who sent barrels of meat marked "U.S." to American soldiers during the War of 1812.The soldiers called it "Uncle Sam's" meat, and an icon was born. Cartoonist Thomas Nast drew the familiar portrait of the man in a top hat and striped pants. Uncle Sam's image has appeared in political ads and on postage stamps. Costumed interpreters take on his persona at historic sites, including Mount Vernon. This high-interest text will engage readers and leave them wanting to find out more about one of America's most famous symbols.

"An exporation of the origins and history of Uncle Sam and the real man, Samuel Wilson, who inspired this beloved symbol of America"--Provided by publisher.

An exploration of the origins and history of Uncle Sam and the real man, Samuel Wilson, who inspired this beloved symbol of America.

"Although he was never more than a cartoon, the bearded, tall-hat-wearing figure known as Uncle Sam has a permanent place on the American family tree. With the help of factual text and engaging photos, young report writers will learn how and when the U.S. symbol was created, what role it's played through the years, and what significance it still has today."--