The history of the "always has been" meme and its meaning

The world of memes is huge and ever-changing. As time progresses, certain memes gain traction, become iconic, and sometimes even represent a specific era...

The world of memes is huge and ever-changing. As time progresses, certain memes gain traction, become iconic, and sometimes even represent a specific era or moment in internet culture. Among these is the "always has been" meme, a standout that has captivated audiences, made them laugh, and got them thinking.

Origins: astronauts and Ohio

The always has been meme revolves around two astronauts in space. The template shows one looking at Earth and realizing something unusual, typically stating a supposed "truth." The second astronaut, often depicted with an object aimed at the first, then confirms the disclosure with the punchline, "Always has been."

So, where did this scenario come from? The answer leads us to a strange rivalry: Ohio vs. the world. The original meme template depicted Earth with the entirety of America replaced by Ohio. The astronaut’s realization? "Wait, it's all Ohio?" The birth of a meme that would soon take over social media.

Memes spreading across platforms

The meme's first appearance is believed to have been on 4chan, an online discussion board known for its role in shaping internet culture. From there, it spread to platforms like Tumblr, where users began creating their edits. The meme's structure was ripe for variation, and soon, the internet was filled with different takes.

A major driver behind its popularity was Know Your Meme, a website dedicated to documenting internet event. They featured the astronaut meme, helping it to reach an even larger audience.

The power of meme edits

As with many memes, it's not just about the original; it's about the adaptations. Using platforms like MS Paint and meme generators, users put their spin on the template, replacing Earth with a variety of disclosure. From funny memes about the flat earth conspiracy theory to video memes for gamers, the meme found its way into numerous niches.

The realm of TikTok was no exception. TikTokers, always keen on fresh content, quickly incorporated the meme into their video edits. Even Minecraft wasn't ; blocky astronauts had their share of realizations in this virtual world.

Meme symbolism

Beyond just the "lol" factor, why did this meme resonate so much? One reason might be the shock of revelation. In a world filled with fake news and conspiracy theories, the notion of unmasking a hidden truth (however silly) resonates. And of course, the sheer randomness of some interpretations — such as the "Ohio vs. the world" premise — is absurd enough to be hilarious. Memes often mirror society's current attitudes, concerns, and jokes. For instance, memes that trend during political elections or global events often carry potent symbols about society's views on these matters. They can quickly show shifts in public opinion, sometimes before traditional polling or media reporting reflects it.

Notable variants

A particular offshoot of “The Always has Been” meme is an object meme. With the astronaut's weapon being an integral part of the meme's structure, many edits highlight or change this element. This has also led to memes within memes, as the object's origin or brand becomes its punchline.

Funny memes aside, some took a more reflective approach. Astronauts gazing at an Earth consumed by global issues, such as climate change or political unrest, became powerful commentary on our world’s state.

Meme impact and legacy

Today, it's not just the meme enthusiasts on platforms like 4chan and Tumblr who are familiar with this meme. Even those who might not know it by its specific name would likely recognize the template or the punchline.

The meme has left its mark on pop culture. From being upvoted as one of the best memes on various sites to spawning merchandise and inspiring art, it has done what only the best memes do: go beyond the screen. Gamers, in particular, adopted it with passion, as random memes about game mechanics and lore fit seamlessly with the meme's structure.

Like the astronauts in the meme who realized something profound about Earth, the always has been meme got internet users worldwide reflecting, laughing, and creating. In an era of short-lived internet phenomena, this meme managed to capture the attention and creativity of many, from Tumblr aficionados to gamers, from meme generators to MS Paint artists. It's a testament to how a simple concept, combined with the power of social media and a sprinkle of humor, can take on a life of its own. Whether it's making light of conspiracy theories or providing commentary on the world's state, the meme encapsulates the very essence of internet culture: random, funny, and always evolving.

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FAQs:

1. Where did the "always has been" meme come from?

- The "always has been" meme originated from a meme template that featured two astronauts in space, with one revealing that the Earth is entirely made up of Ohio, leading to the punchline "Always has been."

2. What does "always has been" mean?

- The phrase "always has been" is the punchline of the meme, used to confirm a shocking or humorous revelation about something that has supposedly always been a certain way, often overturning what we believed to be true.

3. What is the "always has been" meme's significance?

- The meme's significance lies in its reflection of internet culture and its adaptability. It represents the power of revelation and the humor derived from overturning established beliefs, making it both a commentary tool and a humorous outlet for the internet community.