Who Was Harambe
Harambe was a western lowland gorilla born in 1999 and kept at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden. On May 28, 2016, a child fell into his enclosure, and zookeepers shot Harambe to protect the child. The incident was widely reported by outlets including the BBC.
How the Incident Went Viral
Live video of the event spread quickly on social media. Viewers debated the zoo’s decision, and many used the footage to create jokes, edits, and commentary. The combination of dramatic visuals and ambiguous context made the clip easy to remix and share.
Why Harambe Became a Meme
After his death, Harambe became a recurring meme used to comment on topics like authority, decision-making, and internet culture. Users posted images, videos, and jokes referencing him across platforms, keeping the name in public discussion. The meme persists because it is simple, recognizable, and easy to adapt to new situations.
