White Feather

A white feather has been a traditional symbol of cowardice, used and recognised especially within the British Army and in countries associated with the British Empire since the 18th century. It also carries opposite meanings, however: in some cases of pacifism, and in the United States, of extraordinary bravery and excellence in combat marksmanship.

Read more about White Feather:  A Symbol of Cowardice, A Symbol of Pacifism and Peace, Other Symbolism

Famous quotes containing the words white and/or feather:

    “Howling and roaring
    Toe’osh scattered white people
    out of bars all over Wisconsin.”
    —Leslie Marmon Silko (b. 1948)

    “A feather bed had every man,
    Warm slippers and hot-water can,
    Brown windsor from the captain’s store,
    A valet, too, to every four.”
    —Sir William Schwenck Gilbert (1836–1911)