Uncle Tom is a fictional character created by Harriet Beecher Stowe in her novel "Uncle Tom's Cabin," which was published in 1852. Uncle Tom is portrayed as a kind, dignified, and self-sacrificing enslaved man who endures numerous hardships but remains steadfast in his faith and humanity.

The character of Uncle Tom has been both praised and criticized over the years. Some view Uncle Tom as a symbol of enduring strength and moral righteousness in the face of oppression, while others criticize the character as a stereotypical depiction of subservience and passivity.

Despite the controversy surrounding the character, "Uncle Tom's Cabin" played a significant role in advancing the abolitionist cause in the United States. The novel raised awareness about the horrors of slavery and helped to galvanize public opinion against the institution.

In popular culture, the term "Uncle Tom" has been used as a derogatory label for Black individuals perceived as subservient or traitorous to their own race. However, it is important to recognize the complexities of the character and the historical context in which he was created.