The term originated in the mid-1800's right here in the good old US of A, when politicians would announce their arrival into town for the campaign season by riding atop a circus wagon populated by a loud, (and probably out-of-tune) brass band. To show their support of said politician, lookers-on would run into the road and climb aboard the wagon. I envision this looking much like the busses and trains in third-world countries, where buying a ticket doesn't necessarily guarantee you a seat inside.
Using a circus wagon over a century ago as our nation was expanding and really coming to fruition, is it any wonder that the term 'political circus' has remained in vogue? And sure, the classic circus featured a band, but certainly not as prominently as some other three-ring denizens...
Coincidence? I think not.
6 comments:
gah! clowns! great post otherwise. : )
never knew where the term 'band wagon' originated, & political circus certainly DOES fit. yikes.
And yes, I just read your 'clown' post right after posting this. Sorry.
it's all good. well, not the clown part, but you know what i mean. :)
Interesting! I would love to see that come back in style - very entertaining I'm sure!
I've got no problems with either clowns or carnies. Politicians, however... ix-nay.
Have a nice weekend, Elliott!
Can't sleep, clown will eat me. Can't sleep, clown will eat me.
(Love that episode!!!!)
I'd totally join in on the bandwagon. Is this wagon similar to a party bus. Will there be refreshments??
Post a Comment