When you think of the term, “blue jacket,” what immediately comes to your mind? Perhaps it’s the image of a seafarer on the waves. It could also be an old-time Native American chief or even a piece of clothing or hockey team. At this point, you should understand that what is a blue jacket has much more to it than purely describing clothing.
“Blue jacket” is a term that integrates military history, American folklore, professional sports, and fashion all together. If we want to define what is a blue jacket, we need to take a look at each of these diverse categories. This manual will guide you through the most interesting facts, history, and also to its different meanings of the term. It will help you learn each of them in a simple way.
The Many Faces of “Blue Jacket”: A Quick Summary
To understand what a blue jacket is, we need to first dispose of all the confusion surrounding it, and this can only happen when we put the various usages side by side. Indeed, the spelling and context are the easiest way to differentiate the many “blue jackets.” With this overview, you’ll get quick answers to the various forms of a blue jacket.
| Term/Spelling | Primary Meaning | Context / Field |
|---|---|---|
| Bluejacket | A junior enlisted sailor | Naval / Military |
| Blue Jacket | Weyapiersenwah, a Shawnee war chief | American History |
| Blue Jacket(s) | A Union soldier during the Civil War | American History / Sports |
| Blue Jacket | A literal item of clothing | Fashion / Apparel |
The Original “Bluejacket”: A Nickname Created by the Sea
The most prominent and crucial meaning arises from the world of the navy. For centuries, “bluejacket” has been the name of those conscientious sailors who service the world’s navies.
The Meaning of the Jacket: The Uniform of Terminology
The term’s very beginning is actually derived from the navy blue jacket that was worn by junior sailors in the British Royal Navy. Later on, the same uniform was adopted by the United States Navy. This garment, being practical, hard-wearing, and tough, has lived through the tests of time and become iconic.
The name was passed down through generations. From denoting the uniform, it turned into a personal nickname for the guy who wears it. The term evolved into a casual way to demonstrate the identity of the enlisted sailors of the navy.
“The Bluejacket’s Manual”: The Sailor’s Bible
The term “bluejacket” became so strongly associated with U.S. Navy culture that it was even used in the reference title of the service’s most important manual: The Bluejacket’s Manual. Every enlisted sailor receives this book, which is a basic text that serves as their guide for naval life.
Originally published in 1902 to bring together various pamphlets, this manual is still issued to each recruit at boot camp. The book contains a whole collection of naval information. From ranks and rates to customs, traditions, and technical procedures, everything is discussed.
As per the history of The Blue Jacket’s Manual, this book is regarded as a fundamental principle for those who want to become successful sailors. Its continued usage clearly shows the great importance of “bluejacket” in defining what it is to be a U.S. Navy sailor.
Who is Today Recognized as “Bluejacket”?
In the current naval lexicon, a “bluejacket” refers to an enlisted member of the navy. The term is crucial in differentiating these sailors from warrant officers and commissioned officers, who have different career paths and command obligations. The term stands for camaraderie, pride, and tradition.
Chief Blue Jacket: The Legendary Shawnee War Chief
Moving away from naval history, the name Blue Jacket actually belongs to a significant part of American history. It is a monument to a strong warrior who lived to keep his people’s traditions and culture alive.
Who Was Weyapiersenwah?
Chief Blue Jacket, whose Shawnee name was Weyapiersenwah, was a well-known war chief of the Shawnee people and lived in the late 1700s. He was a key figure in the defense of Shawnee and allied tribal territories in the Ohio Country against American expansion.
During the Northwest Indian War, Bluejacket was a key Native American leader of a large, multi-tribal alliance. He was a significant military and political leader who came before the more widely known Shawnee leader, Tecumseh. Tecumseh would continue the fight a generation later.
Debunking the Myth: The Marmaduke Van Swearingen Story
An enduring legend that flourished long after his death alleged that Blue Jacket was in fact a white man called Marmaduke Van Swearingen. According to this myth, he was captured by the Shawnee and adopted into their tribe. Novels and an outdoor drama made this tale famous.
However, careful historical research and analysis of original sources have proven this myth completely wrong. Modern scholarship affirms that Chief Blue Jacket was born a Shawnee. This fact attributes his leadership completely to his people and their heritage.
From the Civil War to the NHL: The Columbus Blue Jackets
The saga of the “blue jacket” as a military symbol covers the navy and the army. Surprisingly, it even goes into professional ice hockey. This association exemplifies how the pride of the past is woven into the character of the present.
The “Blue Jacket” in the Civil War
The NHL franchise, the Columbus Blue Jackets, got its name directly from Union soldiers during the American Civil War. The standard uniform for these soldiers featured a distinctive blue coat or jacket.
The term for the military clothing worn by soldiers during this period has been correlated with patriotism and military services. The name has a special significance for Ohio, as the state was the largest contributor of soldiers per person to the Union Army.
Naming the Franchise: A Tribute to Patriotism
When Columbus acquired an NHL franchise, the name “Blue Jackets” was selected in 1997 to honor this deep local and state history. The name recognizes Ohio’s primary role in the Civil War and the committed spirit of its citizens.
The Symbolism in the Brand
The significance of history goes beyond just the team’s name. The logo and the mascot root the modern-day sports team in the community’s local narrative and the greater national history. The team name itself serves as a tribute to civic pride and sacrifice.
The Literal Blue Jacket: A Fashion Staple That Stands The Test Of Time
At last, we have come to the literal meaning of the question. Other than the areas of history and sport, what is a blue jacket can also be a very logical question in the context of fashion. A blue jacket stands at the base of a great many closets. However, its meaning and use come down to a particular style.
Analyzing the Styles: More Than Just a Color
In the world of fashion, the term blue jacket is not merely a reference to a single object but rather an umbrella term which encompasses a great many models. Each of these has its own cultural connotation and function.
- The Denim Jacket: An icon of rugged, casual Americana. The blue denim jacket is a symbol of youth culture, rebellion, and steadfast workwear.
- The Navy Blazer: It is the very first item of smart-casual and business-casual wardrobe. A well-fitted navy blazer is like a business card displaying professionalism and classic style.
- The Bomber Jacket: With its military history, the blue bomber jacket is stylish, athletic, and totally adaptable for a modern, casual look.
- The Puffer Jacket: A practical choice for cold-weather wear. The blue puffer jacket has come a long way from being an outdoor piece to being an ubiquitous factor in streetwear culture.
How to Style a Blue Jacket for Any Occasion
As experts in the business, we have come to see a blue jacket as being one of the most versatile things one can possess. The secret lies in choosing the right style and making sure it fits well.
Our go-to piece is the navy blazer. Pair it with grey pants for an office meeting and with dark-wash jeans for a chic weekend look. A blue denim jacket, in contrast, is best layered over a simple tee or hoodie for a casual appearance. The main things to look out for are fit and material quality.
Because of the high versatility these designs provide, they have become standard products at many clothing companies. For businesses that want to manufacture their own brands, working with a leading clothing manufacturer has the benefit that the quality and style of the final product will be assured.
Conclusion: A Word with Many Faces
The answer to “what is a blue jacket” is a packed term, containing more than one meaning. It can be a sailor, a chief, a soldier, a sports team, and a fashion icon at the same time. The journey of the term from the sea to the Midwest and eventually into our closets demonstrates its significant cultural weight. Each meaning contributes to its rich history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why are U.S. Navy sailors called “bluejackets”?
They got this nickname from the historical dark blue, double-breasted jackets they wore as part of their uniform. The term became a popular nickname for junior enlisted sailors and has lasted for centuries.
Was the Shawnee Chief Blue Jacket a white man?
No. Though a popular legend from the 1800s stated he may have been a white man named Marmaduke Van Swearingen, modern historical research confirms that Chief Blue Jacket (Weyapiersenwah) was born Shawnee.
What is the connection between the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Civil War?
The NHL team is named in honor of the “Blue Jackets” of the Union Army during the American Civil War. The name was selected as a way to commemorate Ohio’s contribution of many soldiers to the war effort and to celebrate the state’s rich history.
What is “The Bluejacket’s Manual”?
The Bluejacket’s Manual is the official basic handbook for U.S. Navy enlisted personnel. First published in 1902, it contains essential information about naval history, procedures, and traditions. It is given to every new recruit.
What does wearing a blue jacket symbolize in fashion?
The symbolism varies according to the style. A navy blazer generally suggests tradition and professionalism. A denim jacket often represents a casual look or a rebellious character. However, blue has a generally positive image standing for stability, trust, and flexibility, thus being a preferred color for a wardrobe staple.
