Where does “They say jump, you say how high” originate from?
What is the origin of the phrase "They say jump, you say how high"? I'm aware that it includes lyrics from a song by Rage Against the Machine, but I would like to know where this phrase originally comes from, as well as any other variations of it that may exist.
3 Answers
The oldest source that I know of this expression is from the military, when new recruits begin boot camp and the drill Sargent has them lined up, giving them initial instructions on how it’s going to be. They’re usually trying to be very intimidating and forceful, letting the recruits know that it’s going to be hard and that they must follow every order/instruction to perfection. Part of the spiel always includes, “when I say jump, you say how high!”
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