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Despite Wikipedia's claim that "flipping off" originated in Rome with the 'digitus impudicus' (impudent finger), "flipping off" actually originated in the several wars between Britain and France. The battle field was a constant struggle for either side to gain an advantage, until the British developed the Longbow. With the Longbow British Archers could now kill off French soldiers from about 180 - 200 meters away!

Now, when a British Archer was captured by the French they would have their middle finger cut off, rendering them useless as an archer. So, the hand gesture of "flipping off" originates from escaped British soldiers as a way to taunt the French, as if to say "I still have my middle finger, take THAT!"

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Q: How did flipping people off originate?
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