Americans Pretending to Be Canadian While Traveling
Some Americans mount Canadian flags on their luggage to avoid negative treatment abroad amid global disapproval of U.S. politics. This tactic, known as "flag-jacking," resurfaces whenever America faces international criticism.
Origin and History of Flag-Jacking
One Canadian radio host described the phenomenon:
“It’s like clockwork. The world gets mad at America, and Americans go, ‘Oh no, quick! To the maple leaves!’”
The practice dates back to the Vietnam War era, when young travelers sewed Canadian flag patches onto their backpacks and clothes as they hitchhiked across Europe. It resurged during the Gulf War and the 2003 Iraq War.
Popular Culture Reference
In a 2005 episode of The Simpsons, Lisa Simpson explains to Bart:
“Well, some people in Europe have the impression that America has made some stupid choices in the past, oh, five years. So, for the next week, I’m from Canada.”
Recent Developments
As the Trump administration's global popularity declined, Americans once again turned to online stores to buy Canadian flag patches and stickers for their travel gear, hoping to blend in with Canadians.
Author's Summary
This recurring trend shows how Americans attempt to sidestep international criticism by posing as Canadians during politically tense times.