Japanese media has become a global phenomenon over the last few decades and has even come to represent the international audience it has cultivated. A running joke amongst fans of Japanese anime and video games is the way these media projects represent different nationalities.

Fans of Hetalia might know the Japanese tendency to exaggerate stereotypes and histories for the sake of the plot, but a recent online trend humorously explores the different narratives Japanese media has created for their global audience. Here's why people are making jokes that you should Be the American the Japanese think you are.

Who Said 'Be The American Japanese Think You Are'?

In early 2022, Twitter user @high_lethality posted an image of an American character called Senator Armstrong from the 2013 video game Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance.

Senator Armstrong is a famous antagonist known for his over-the-top muscular structure and for how he parodies American politics.

How Did The 'Be The X Japanese Think You Are' Meme Spread?

Various internet users began posting more characters they think are emblematic of certain nationalities, with Twitter user @FuturistDog making a four-panel post featuring images of Guile from Street Fighter, Keith Howard from Yu-Gi-Oh!, Senator Armstrong and America from Hetalia.

Another Twitter user @italoCampos682 mimicked the tweet using images of famous Brazilian characters featured in Japanese media.

What Are Some More Examples Of The 'Be The X' Meme?

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For the full history of "Be the X the Japanese think you are," be sure to check out Know Your Meme's encyclopedia entry for more information.