In 2016, a gorilla named Harambe was shot and killed at the Cincinnati Zoo after a child fell into his enclosure. The incident sparked controversy and outrage, but it also led to the creation of countless memes featuring the beloved gorilla. These memes quickly spread across the internet, with many people finding humor in them. However, as time passed, the jokes became more and more tasteless, leading to a decline in their popularity.
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The Birth of Harambe Memes
When news of Harambe’s death first broke, many people were shocked and saddened. However, soon after, memes featuring the gorilla began to appear online. The memes ranged from silly to absurd, with many people using them as a way to cope with their grief. Some even saw the memes as a way to keep Harambe’s memory alive.
At first, the memes were mostly harmless. They poked fun at the strange circumstances surrounding Harambe’s death, but they didn’t cross any lines. However, as the memes continued to spread, they became more and more inappropriate.
The Dark Side of Harambe Memes
As the popularity of Harambe memes grew, so did the controversy surrounding them. Many people began to criticize the memes for being insensitive and disrespectful. Some even argued that the memes were racist, as they often portrayed Harambe as a thuggish or violent figure.
Despite the backlash, the memes continued to spread. They became a staple of internet culture, with many people using them as a way to show off their sense of humor. However, as time passed, the jokes became more and more distasteful.
The Decline of Harambe Memes
By 2017, the popularity of Harambe memes had begun to wane. Many people had grown tired of the tasteless jokes and were ready to move on. However, there were still some diehard fans of the memes who continued to create and share them.
Today, Harambe memes are a shadow of their former selves. While they still exist, they are no longer as prevalent as they once were. Many people have moved on from the controversy surrounding Harambe’s death, and the memes that once brought them so much joy are now seen as a relic of the past.
What People Are Saying
Those Who Loved the Memes
“I thought the Harambe memes were hilarious. They were a great way to cope with the sadness of his death. I don’t think they were ever meant to be disrespectful.” – Jessica, 24
“I loved the Harambe memes. They were so silly and absurd. I think people who were offended by them just didn’t get the joke.” – Mike, 29
Those Who Hated the Memes
“The Harambe memes were completely tasteless. They were disrespectful to both the gorilla and the child who was involved in the incident.” – Sarah, 33
“I thought the Harambe memes were racist. They portrayed a beloved animal as a violent thug, which is completely unfair.” – Jamal, 27
Those Who Were Indifferent
“I didn’t really care about the Harambe memes one way or the other. I can see why some people found them funny, but I can also see why others were offended by them.” – Emily, 31
“I think the Harambe memes were just a passing fad. They were funny for a little while, but then people moved on to the next thing.” – David, 26
