This Is Why Michelin Man Is White

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Trumpy strikes back with yet another piece of useless trivia!

Ever wondered why Michelin Man is white? No, it has nothing to do with the patriarchy! And there was actually a small period of time he was actually black!

Also known as Bibendum, Michelin Man is one of the oldest and recognizable mascots. It was first introduced in 1894 and consisted of white tires because...tires were actually white back then!

Michelin_Poster_1898.jpg
Michelin Man in 1898, Public Domain

It was in 1912 when carbon was introduced in the tire recipe when they started to be black and more durable. The company changed Michelin man briefly to a black color but the decision was soon taken back

Rubber tires were originally gray-white, or light or translucent beige. In 1912, they became black when carbon was added to them as a preservative and strengthener. The company changed Bibendum's colour to black as well, and featured him that way in several print ads. They decided to abandon the change, citing printing and aesthetic issues (not racial concerns, as is commonly believed). source

And that's how Michelin man came to be white. And then black. And then white again!

Here's a link to Wikipedia if you want to read more on the history of this popular icon!

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21 comments
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You received an upvote of 89% from Precious the Silver Mermaid!

Please remember to contribute great content to the #SilverGoldStackers tag to create another Precious Gem.

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Absolutely useless history is often the best history! Great job!
!LOL
!DOOK

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And that's how Michelin man came to be white. And then black. And then white again!

So... white people want to become black but then want to be white agin. So much racism.

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That's an interesting and somehow funny story. In the end probably the money spoke and they capitalized on what was better selling and having the most effect. Even if now... things might be different :)

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It's weird to see. I guess it makes some sense. Race issues weren't an issue back then and I guess it's just how time changes.

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I am now rounding up my whole family to tell them this important "Did you know that..."

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