The American Beard Has Quite A Dark History

From America's founding historical moments, the beard choices of American men reveal deep-seated attitudes about the most basic stuff that makes a civilization tick. So grab a beard comb, and let's dive face first into the bristly, dark depths of the history of the American beard.

In all American history, the most famous beard arguably belongs to Abraham Lincoln. And
even in his day, Lincoln's beard was a matter of intense public debate. In 1860, Lincoln was clean-chinned, and still seeking election to the presidency. An 11-year-old supporter named Grace Bedell wrote to Abe, suggesting a beard might increase his chances. She explained that, quote,

"All the ladies like whiskers and they would tease their husbands to vote for you."

Improbably, Lincoln took her advice. He even made a point of meeting her in person to thank her for the suggestion. The press reported on it. Rival candidates mocked Lincoln for his unbecoming vanity. In 1860, long before social media, the presidential hopeful suddenly faced a credibility issue because of his beard! Right as the US was about to tear itself apart, a beard became a battleground for the future of the nation's national character.

It turned out that little girl was right: the beard changed Lincoln's face dramatically, making him at once both more authoritative and more relatable. And thus, the Union was saved.

Watch the video for more about the Dark History Of The American Beard!

#Beards #FacialHair

Abe's beard | 0:15
The beginning of the barbershop | 1:14
The beard and U.S. exceptionalism | 2:06
The modern military beard | 2:52
Gender politics | 3:56
The "Duck Dynasty" beard | 5:02
Modern-day bearditude | 5:49
Movember | 6:31
The trendy beard | 7:08
The current state of beards | 7:57
The future of beards | 8:48

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