What is the Blackbeard Meme?

A Brief History of the Meme

In 2017, an image of the famous pirate Blackbeard with a joint in his mouth and the caption "Blackbeard was a pothead" began circulating on social media. The image became popular as a reaction to the then-recent legalization of marijuana in several states. The meme is often used to humorously depict Blackbeard as a modern-day stoner.

The Meaning of the Meme

The Blackbeard meme plays on the contrast between the historical figure of Blackbeard, a feared and ruthless pirate, and the stereotypical image of a pothead as a laid-back and harmless individual. The meme suggests that even the most fearsome pirates might have had a softer side.

The meme has also been used to make light of the stigma surrounding marijuana use. By depicting Blackbeard as a pothead, the meme suggests that smoking marijuana is not necessarily a sign of weakness or criminality.

Variations on the Meme

The Blackbeard meme has spawned numerous variations, including images of Blackbeard smoking marijuana with other historical figures, such as George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. The meme has also been used to create humorous videos and songs.

The Blackbeard meme has become a popular way to express one's views on marijuana legalization and to poke fun at the historical figure of Blackbeard. The meme is a reminder that even the most fearsome pirates might have had a softer side.

Blackbeard Meme