Monday, March 12, 2012

Teddy bear

Everyone knows what a teddy bear is and I’m sure most of you have a childhood memory of having one. Of course, I’m sure there are some of you who still sleep with one at night time. The origin of this phrase comes from an incident involving former U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt.

From The Washington Post, 1902
Roosevelt’s nickname was ‘Teddy’ in obvious reference to his first name. While on a trip to Mississippi in 1902 Teddy was invited on a bear hunting trip by the state’s governor. During the trip many other hunters managed to kill a bear or two, but Teddy was unable to find one. Some of the hunters decided to help the president by cornering, clubbing and then tying a bear to a tree. The president was encouraged to shoot the bear but he refused stating that it was unsportsmanlike. He instructed that the bear be put out of its misery.
Theodore Roosevelt

This incident became the topic of a political cartoon that inspired Morris Michtom to create a new toy. He constructed a stuffed bear cub and placed it in his store window with the name “Teddy’s bear,” after receiving permission from the president to use his name. The new toy became a resounding success.

Now you know where the name of your beloved toy came from and you can remember this story when you cuddle up in bed with your stuffed animal tonight.

20 comments:

  1. Hmm, very interesting. Nice post Justin!

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  2. Wow, nice post,there are many person searching about that now they will find enough resources by your post.Thank you for sharing to us.Please one more post about that..

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  3. I had no idea there was a story behind teddy bear. Thanks for that little piece of history Justin. I would also love to know the name of Brad's teddy bear haha

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  4. I still have my Teddy Bear from when I was a child. I love it and it stays on my bed. I had no idea where the name 'Teddy Bear' came from, but it's neat to know. I think every Teddy Bear should have it's own name though, just for individuality sake.

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    1. I agree. Each Teddy Bear has its own personality.

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  5. Justin, you may be impressed to know that I have known this fun fact since I was a little one. :)

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  6. I actually knew this one as well! Not in great detail, but the gist of it! I definitely love my teddy bear, and always will haha

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  7. I'm glad to know that I've been snuggling with Teddy Roosevelt all these years...

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  8. THIS IS HILARIOUSLY AMAZING! I would have never imagined the story attached to something as simple as a Teddy Bear. Although I have never questioned its name before either...

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  9. I would have never guessed that. Thanks for teaching me something new Justin!

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  10. I am continually amazed by the amount of information available on this subject. What you presented was well researched and well worded in order to get your stand on this across to all your readers. teddy bear

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