John Henry (folklore) - Cultural References and Influence

Cultural References and Influence

The tale of John Henry has been used as a symbol in many cultural movements, including labor movements and the Civil Rights Movement.

John Henry is a symbol of physical strength and endurance, of exploited labor, of the dignity of a human being against the degradations of the machine age, and of racial pride and solidarity. During World War II his image was used in U.S. government propaganda as a symbol of social tolerance and diversity.

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