E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
John Bull.
The national nickname for an Englishman, represented as a bluff, kindhearted, bull-headed farmer. The character is from a satire by Dr. Arbuthnot. In this satire the Frenchman is tormed Lewis Baboon, the Dutchman Nicholas Frog, etc.
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John Bull. A comedy by George Colman. Job Thornberry is the chief character.
