There are a few iconic t-shirts that people have worn for years and continue to. Though they may be presented in different styles and patterns, the saying or symbol remains the same. Many will happily wear these t-shirts but do not know the history behind them. Below are a few little known facts about some of the most common t-shirt designs.

The “Keep Calm and Carry On” phrase has seen a large serge in t-shirts as well as on other items and even social media posts. This saying was initially printed upon posters by the British government during World War II after King George VI stated it in an inspirational speech. Another inspirational quote was derived from not-so inspirational circumstances. The Nike slogan, “Just Do It,” though popularized by the iconic Michael Jordan, was actually derived from the last words of Gary Gilmore, a convict who was executed by a firing squad. Some might also be shocked to learn that the peace sign, now known as a universal sign of harmony was actually derived by a Roman emperor as an “Anti-Christian” symbol.

These are just a taste of the unique backgrounds associated with some of the most iconic t-shirts that are commonly circulated. To learn more interesting facts about the aforementioned phrases and symbols, as well as other well known ones, check out the infographic below.

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