National Pow Day

A group of diverse people, wearing patriotic colors, holding hands united in solidarity, against a backdrop of barbed wire fence and a symbol of freedom.. — National pow day illustration

Pow! National POW Day is here, and it's time to pay our respects to those who have endured the hardships of being a prisoner of war. On this special day, we remember their incredible courage, strength, and resilience. So, grab your lunchbox, slip on your comfy pants, and let's dive into the fascinating history of National POW Day!

When is Pow Day?

It's national pow day on the 18th September.

The Origins of National POW Day

While there isn't a specific date for National POW Day, it's often observed on September 18th. This date holds a significant place in the hearts of many because it marks the day when most mentions of National POW Day occurred online. Back in 2015, POWs and their stories took the internet by storm, captivating people from all walks of life.

This nationwide day of remembrance aims to honor prisoners of war who have endured immense physical and emotional challenges. It serves as a testament to their bravery, sacrifice, and the unwavering spirit that kept them going even in the darkest of times. From military conflicts to humanitarian missions, prisoners of war have faced unimaginable trials.

How to Observe National POW Day

There are countless ways you can show your support for POWs on this special day. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Pay Tribute: Take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by POWs and thank them for their service. Visit a local veterans' memorial, light a candle, or say a silent prayer in their honor.
Spread Awareness: Share the stories of POWs through social media, blogs, or even a good old-fashioned conversation. By raising awareness, we can ensure that their memories and experiences are never forgotten.
Support Organizations: Reach out to organizations that provide aid and support to POWs and their families. Consider making a donation or volunteering your time to make a difference.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the longest recorded period of captivity for a prisoner of war is an astounding 43 years! Soviet soldier Andrei P. Mishin was imprisoned by Nazi Germany during World War II and wasn't released until 1988. Talk about incredible strength and perseverance!

History behind the term 'Pow'

1882

First recorded usage

The term 'pow' was first recorded in 1882 in the United States. It derives from the sound effect used in comic strips to depict a punch being thrown. The word 'pow' was often used as a caption next to the illustration of a punch, emphasizing its impact.

1862

Origins in Military Slang

The term 'pow' originated in the military, specifically during the American Civil War. It was used as an abbreviation for 'prisoner of war' and was commonly used by soldiers to refer to captured enemy soldiers.

1809

Origin in military context

The term 'pow' originated in 1809 in the context of military battles. It was used as an onomatopoeic representation of the sound made when a gunshot or explosive hits its target. It quickly became a popular slang term among soldiers to describe the impact of a projectile.

1905

Origins in World War I

The term 'pow' originated in the context of World War I. It stands for 'prisoner of war', referring to soldiers who were captured and held captive by the enemy. The International Red Cross created a convention in 1905 to establish guidelines for the humane treatment of prisoners of war, which brought greater awareness to the term and its significance.

1789

Origins in American Indian Languages

The term 'pow' has its origins in the American Indian languages, particularly the Algonquian language family. In these languages, the word 'pow' was used to describe the sound or impact of a punch or blow. It was commonly used during fights and battles.

1930s

Influence on popular culture

During the 1930s, the term 'pow' gained widespread popularity and became a cultural phenomenon. It was frequently used in comic books, particularly in the action-packed frames of superhero stories. The usage of 'pow' extended beyond comics and found its way into everyday language, effectively becoming synonymous with a punch or a sudden impact.

1850

Introduction into American English

The term 'pow' made its way into American English slang during the mid-19th century. It was adopted by both the working class and the criminal underworld, where it became a popular term to describe a strong punch or strike. The term gained further popularity through its usage in newspapers and dime novels, contributing to its spread.

1949

The Geneva Conventions

In 1949, the Geneva Conventions were established as a set of international treaties to further protect prisoners of war. These conventions set standards for the treatment and rights of POWs, including provisions for medical care, repatriation, and humane treatment. The use of the term 'pow' became more widely known and associated with the Geneva Conventions.

1940

Comics and cartoons popularize 'pow'

In the 1940s, the term 'pow' gained further popularity through its incorporation into comics and cartoons. Speech bubbles featuring 'pow' were used to convey the impact of punches and melee attacks. It became a prominent element in the visual storytelling of superhero and action-themed comics of the era.

1918

Enters Popular Culture

After World War I, the term 'pow' made its way into popular culture and started to be used more widely outside of military circles. It became synonymous with the concept of being captured or defeated, and was often included in newspaper headlines and fictional stories.

1930

Integration into Comic Books

The term 'pow' gained even more prominence through its integration into comic books. In the 1930s, comic strips and comic books became increasingly popular, and onomatopoeic words like 'pow' were used to represent the sound effects of punches and other action-packed scenes. The visual impact of these sounds added excitement and energy to the storytelling, and 'pow' became a familiar term among comic book readers.

1940s

Comic Book Impact

In the 1940s, comics played a significant role in the popularization of the term 'pow.' Comic book artists, such as the legendary Stan Lee, used 'pow' as a sound effect in superhero fight scenes, typically representing the sound of a punch or explosive impact. This usage further solidified 'pow' in the public consciousness.

1965

Pop Culture Reference

The term 'pow' gained further recognition and popularity through its association with the classic Batman television series, which aired from 1966 to 1968. The show incorporated animated 'pow' graphics during fight scenes, adding a visual representation of the impact of punches. This pop culture reference helped solidify 'pow' as a widely recognized and playful portrayal of physical impacts or action.

1960s

Batman's impact

The television series 'Batman,' which premiered in 1966, further solidified the term 'pow' in popular culture. The show's use of visual sound effects during fight scenes, including 'pow,' 'bam,' and 'kapow,' became iconic. 'Pow' was integral in creating a sense of excitement and action, making it an integral part of the show's campy charm.

1966

The Batman television series popularizes 'pow'

The iconic Batman television series, which aired from 1966 to 1968, played a significant role in popularizing the term 'pow.' The show, known for its colorful visuals and campy style, featured dynamic fight scenes with exaggerated sound effects. The 'pow' sound effect, displayed on-screen, became synonymous with the show's energetic and action-packed sequences.

1970s

Cultural impact expands beyond comics and television

During the 1970s, the term 'pow' began to permeate popular culture beyond comics and television. It found its way into various forms of media, such as movies, music, and even everyday conversation. 'Pow' became a trendy exclamation often used to express surprise, excitement, or the impact of an event with a touch of retro charm.

1960s

Batman's Contribution

The iconic 1960s television series 'Batman' played a crucial role in further popularizing the term 'pow.' The show's creators incorporated comic book-style sound effects into the action scenes, including 'pow,' 'bam,' and 'wham.' These onomatopoeic words became instantly recognizable and closely associated with 'Batman' and the superhero genre as a whole.

1990s

Internet usage

With the rise of the internet in the 1990s, the term 'pow' found a new platform for expression. It became a popular meme, often used in online discussions and forums to denote surprise or excitement. The simplicity and recognizability of 'pow' made it an ideal choice for conveying emotions in the digital age.

1960

Popularity with Batman TV Series

The term 'pow' experienced a significant surge in popularity with the release of the 'Batman' television series in the 1960s. The show incorporated visually dynamic fight scenes accompanied by on-screen sound effects, including 'pow,' 'bam,' and 'wham.' The vibrant and campy nature of the show captured the attention of a wide audience, further cementing 'pow' into popular culture.

1991

Comic Book Impact

In 1991, the release of Frank Miller's graphic novel 'Sin City' brought the term 'pow' back into the limelight. The novel featured stylized artwork with onomatopoeic sound effects, including 'pow', to depict the intensity of fights and action sequences. This renewed use of 'pow' in comic book culture further solidified its association with superhero stories and intense physical encounters.

2000

Internet Meme Era

The term 'pow' continued to endure and maintain its cultural relevance with the rise of internet memes. Online platforms, such as social media and image-sharing websites, became fertile ground for the creation and dissemination of humorous content. 'Pow' found new life as a popular meme, often used in captioned images or videos to express surprise, impact, or playful exaggeration.

Present

Continued cultural relevance

Even today, the term 'pow' continues to be a widely recognized and used expression. It has transcended its origins in comic strips and has become deeply ingrained in popular culture. Whether in reference to a physical impact or as a representation of excitement, 'pow' remains a go-to word that resonates with people of all ages.

2001

Internet Memes

With the dawn of the internet age, 'pow' took on a new life as an internet meme. It became a common expression used to denote surprise, intensity, or sudden impact, often accompanied by humorous visuals or animated GIFs. This internet culture phenomenon contributed to the widespread usage and recognition of 'pow' in contemporary times.

Present

'Pow' remains a cultural reference

Even though several decades have passed since its first appearance, the term 'pow' continues to live on as a cultural reference. It retains its association with action, impact, and energetic encounters. 'Pow' maintains its nostalgic appeal and serves as a reminder of the dynamic and vivid comic book and television culture that shaped the entertainment landscape.

2000s

Internet Memes

In the 2000s, internet culture and memes embraced the term 'pow' as a playful way to express surprise or excitement. Memes featuring the word 'pow' often accompanied pictures or videos of unexpected or impressive events. This online trend amplified the term's usage, contributing to its continued popularity in various contexts, from gaming to social media.