Based Stickman, the alter ego of Kyle Chapman, rose to internet fame following the 'March 4 Trump' rally in Berkeley, California, in 2017. He was captured in a viral video wearing tactical gear, including a gas mask and a helmet, while breaking a sign over an opposing protester's head. The image quickly became a symbol within various right-leaning online circles, representing a proactive defense of free speech and conservative values. While some see him as a hero for political activism, others view him as a figure of political polarization, making the template a popular choice for intense political commentary, satire, and remix culture across platforms like 4chan and Reddit.