“It Appears My Superiority Has Led to Some Controversy” is a caption-based meme centered on somewhat ironic, over-the-top nationalism. In the U.S. version, it most often features a crudely drawn map of the United States with a simple smiling face, presenting the country as calmly pleased with itself while acknowledging backlash.
The meme originated on 4chan in late 2012, where it first appeared alongside a rough, intentionally low-effort drawing of the U.S. map (as seen in this shirt) and the now-familiar phrase. Early usage leaned into forum humor that mocked both American exceptionalism and the tendency for online arguments to spiral into nationalist chest-thumping. Over time, the image spread across multiple 4chan boards and became a recognizable reaction image.
As it circulated, the meme evolved beyond the national level. By the mid-to-late 2010s, users began creating state- and city-level versions, applying the same smug tone to local pride or regional rivalries. These adaptations kept the core idea intact while shifting the superiority joke to smaller geographic identities.
In the broader meme ecosystem, the phrase became associated with “coaxed into a snafu”-style rage comics and later with counter-signal memes, where the humor comes from deliberately leaning into behavior that others find annoying or provocative.
How it's made
The unisex tshirt blank for adults this tee is based on is a Gildan 64000. Made with ethically grown and harvested ring-spun US cotton, this is a lightweight fabric (4.5 oz/yd² (153 g/m²)) in a modern unisex cut. The classic fit with the crew neckline deliver a clean, versatile style that can match any occasion, whether formal or semi-formal.
Shoulders are reinforced with twill tape, there are no side seams for a smoother fit, and the ribbed-knit collar helps prevent curling. All shirts feature a pearlized, tear-away label for total wearing comfort.
Solid colors are 100% cotton, while heathers and sport grey use polyester blends for added durability. Note that due to the fabric properties, the White color variant may appear slightly off-white rather than bright white. 2 year warranty in EU and Northern Ireland as per Directive 1999/44/EC.
Machine wash instructions: cold (max 30C or 90F), with similar colors, do not bleach. Tumble dry: low heat. Iron, steam or dry: low heat. Do not dryclean.
Size guide
| XS | S | M | L | XL | 2XL | 3XL | 4XL | 5XL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Width, in | 16.00 | 18.00 | 20.00 | 22.00 | 24.00 | 26.00 | 28.00 | 30.00 | 32.00 |
| Length, in | 27.00 | 28.00 | 29.00 | 30.00 | 31.00 | 32.00 | 33.00 | 34.00 | 35.00 |
| Sleeve length, in | 7.99 | 8.23 | 8.50 | 8.74 | 9.02 | 9.25 | 9.49 | 9.72 | 9.96 |
| Size tolerance, in | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 | 1.50 |
| Weight | N/A |
|---|
