Uncle Tom is a fictional character created by Harriet Beecher Stowe in her 1852 novel, "Uncle Tom's Cabin." The novel was a powerful anti-slavery narrative that aimed to depict the cruelty and inhumanity of slavery in the United States. Uncle Tom is portrayed as a kind, gentle, and devoutly religious African American slave who is ultimately martyred for his beliefs.

Over time, the character of Uncle Tom has been both celebrated and criticized. Some view him as a symbol of endurance and dignity in the face of oppression, while others see him as a stereotype perpetuating negative connotations of subservience and compliance.

Despite the mixed perceptions of the character, "Uncle Tom's Cabin" played a significant role in shaping public opinion about slavery in the 19th century and is considered a seminal work in the fight against the institution of slavery.