The jerry can has beena a feature of war-time transportation for almost a century. Originally developed by the German army during World War II as a means of transporting fuel and water, this four legged container quickly became a common sight on the front lines. While its efficient design has made it a staple in the military, have you ever wondered why it was given the name ‘jerry can’?
In this article we’ll take a look at the invention of the jerry can, the different types available and why it has come to be known as a jerry can. read on to find out more!
Why Is It Called a Jerry Can?
The Jerry can has become an iconic object, but why is it called a Jerry can? Its history is full of interesting facts and stories.Early History
The origin of the Jerry can dates back to World War I. The German military developed a canister that could replace their bulky barrels, which were leaky, bulky, and slow to fill.This new container was smaller, more reliable, and could be filled up quickly. The Germans named it the “Wehrmacht-Einheitskanister”, or German Standard Canister.
World War II
During World War II, the Allies adopted the German design for their own military use. The process of making it widely available was carried out by the British and Americans. The British decided to call it the “jerry can” after the Germans who designed it (Jerry is a nickname for Germans).This name became widely adopted and it has been in use ever since.
Post-War Popularity
The jerry can gained popularity after the war with civilians using it to transport water and other liquids safely and conveniently. It was used in Europe, North and South America, Africa, and Asia, allowing people to transport water, fuel, and other liquids to wherever they needed to go.Modern Usage
Today, the jerry can is still used by both civilians and military forces around the world. It is used for fuel storage, water collection, and for carrying hazardous materials like oil and gasoline.It is also seen in pop culture, with it making appearances in movies, television, and other media.