In the episode of season Lionel cries uncle what did the name uncle "Tom" mean back then?

In the episode of season Lionel cries uncle what did the name uncle "Tom" mean back then?


Because Louise's Uncle worked as a butler for many years. So that's why George referred to him as a Uncle tom and made this statement-"If the shoe fits let him shine it"

I think the poster is asking what does the term "Uncle Tom" mean.

Here is one definition for that term:

Theatrical productions of Uncle Tom's Cabin played throughout the nadir (post Civil War and Reconstruction); but since the novel's indictment of slavery was no longer congenial to an increasingly white society, rewrites changed Uncle Tom from a martyr who gave his life to protect the people into a sentimental dope who was loyal to kindly masters. In the black community, Uncle Tom eventually came to mean an African American who sells out his people's interests and still does today.


BTW, I went to the store today and they were having a BUY ONE GET ONE FREE DVD sale. They had THE JEFFERSONS!!!!!!!!!

Thank you for the meaning. :)