Company figureheads have become an integral part of many brands’ identities. From Colonel Sanders to Ronald McDonald, these characters are often used to represent a company’s mission, values, and products. But which of these figures are real people, and which are purely fictional? Let’s take a look at the evidence.
Real Person or Not?
The answer to this question can vary depending on the company figurehead in question. Some characters, such as Colonel Sanders of KFC, are based on real people. Harland Sanders was a real person who established the fried chicken chain in the 1930s. He was a prolific entrepreneur who eventually became the face of the company.
Other figures, such as the Michelin Man, are fictional characters that have no real-world counterpart. The Michelin Man was created in the late 1800s and was originally designed to be a cartoon mascot for the Michelin Tire Company. He is still used today to represent the brand’s commitment to safety and quality.
Investigating Company Figureheads
When it comes to determining whether a company figurehead is real or not, there are a few key pieces of evidence to consider. The first is the company’s history. If a figurehead has been around for a long time, there’s a good chance that they are based on a real person. For example, Colonel Sanders was around for more than 50 years before his death in 1980.
Another way to find out if a figurehead is real is to look for photographs or other media of them. If a figurehead has been photographed or featured in videos or commercials, then they are likely a real person.
Finally, research the figurehead’s name. If they have a Wikipedia page or other online presence, then they are likely a real person. For example, Colonel Sanders has a Wikipedia page that documents his life and accomplishments.
In conclusion, determining whether a company figurehead is a real person or not can be difficult. However, by looking into the company’s history, examining media of the figurehead, and researching the name, it’s possible to find out the truth.