The 2013 U.S. Government Shutdown meme originated from the 16-day period in October 2013 when the United States federal government entered a funding gap. As national monuments and parks were barricaded, the internet responded with a wave of satirical images highlighting the absurdity of the political impasse. Most memes focused on the closure of 'non-essential' services, the irony of politicians continuing to receive pay while workers were furloughed, and the dramatic 'Closed' signs appearing at iconic locations like the Grand Canyon. It became a staple of political commentary, used to criticize government inefficiency and the partisan divide that paralyzed federal operations for over two weeks.