Summary
TLDR: The article discusses the rise of the meme character Pepe the Frog and its transformation from an innocent online meme to being associated with hate symbols and white supremacy. It explains how the character was originally created as a light-hearted meme but was later misappropriated by extremist groups. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and evolution of memes in order to combat hate speech and misinformation on the internet.
Key Points
1. Pepe is a popular internet meme featuring a cartoon frog character. It was created by artist Matt Furie and gained widespread recognition on social media platforms.
2. The meme became controversial due to its association with certain political movements and ideologies. It has been used by both mainstream and fringe groups to express various messages, leading to debates about its meaning and usage.
3. Pepe’s popularity has led to numerous spin-off versions and adaptations, with different variations and emotions associated with the character. It has also been featured in various forms of media, including games, comics, and merchandise.