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This revolution won't be broadcast, but it could have webbed feet and bulging eyes.

Additionally, it could include a unicorn's horn or the plumage of a chicken.

Whilst rallies against the government continue in American cities, participants are adopting the vibe of a neighborhood dress-up party. They've offered dance instruction, distributed treats, and performed on unicycles, while officers look on.

Combining levity and political action – a tactic researchers call "tactical frivolity" – has historical precedent. However, it has emerged as a signature characteristic of protests in the United States in the current era, adopted by various groups.

One particular emblem has risen to become particularly salient – the frog. It began when video footage of an encounter between an individual in an inflatable frog and ICE agents in the city of Portland, went viral. From there, it proliferated to rallies throughout the United States.

"There is much going on with that little inflatable frog," states LM Bogad, who teaches at UC Davis and an academic who focuses on performance art.

The Path From the Pepe Meme to the Streets of Portland

It's challenging to discuss demonstrations and amphibians without addressing Pepe, an illustrated figure co-opted by far-right groups throughout an election cycle.

As the character initially spread on the internet, people used it to convey certain emotions. Afterwards, its use evolved to endorse a political figure, even one notable meme retweeted by the candidate himself, depicting the frog with recognizable attire and hairstyle.

Pepe was also depicted in digital spaces in more extreme scenarios, as a historical dictator. Users traded "unique frog images" and established digital currency in his name. His catchphrase, "that feels good", was used a coded signal.

Yet Pepe didn't start out this divisive.

Its creator, artist Matt Furie, has stated about his unhappiness for how the image has been used. The character was intended as simply an apolitical figure in his comic world.

The frog debuted in a series of comics in the mid-2000s – non-political and notable for a quirky behavior. In 'Feels Good Man', which follows the creator's attempt to reclaim ownership of his work, he explained the character came from his life with companions.

Early in his career, the artist tried uploading his work to new websites, where other users began to copy, alter, and reinterpret his character. As its popularity grew into darker parts of the internet, Mr Furie tried to disavow his creation, even killing him off in a final panel.

However, its legacy continued.

"This demonstrates that we don't control icons," states the professor. "They can change and shift and be reclaimed."

Previously, the association of this meme meant that frogs were largely associated with the right. This shifted on a day in October, when a viral moment between an activist wearing an inflatable frog costume and a federal agent in Portland, Oregon spread rapidly online.

The event followed a decision to send military personnel to Portland, which was called "war-ravaged". Activists began to assemble in large numbers on a single block, near an immigration enforcement facility.

Emotions ran high and an immigration officer sprayed irritant at a protester, directing it into the opening of the inflatable suit.

The protester, Seth Todd, reacted humorously, remarking he had tasted "something milder". However, the video spread everywhere.

The frog suit was somewhat typical for Portland, renowned for its unconventional spirit and left-wing protests that revel in the absurd – outdoor exercise, 80s-style aerobics lessons, and unique parades. The city's unofficial motto is "Embrace the Strange."

The costume even played a role in subsequent court proceedings between the administration and Portland, which contended the deployment overstepped authority.

Although a judge decided that month that the president was within its rights to send personnel, one judge dissented, mentioning the protesters' "known tendency for donning inflatable costumes when expressing opposition."

"Some might view the majority's ruling, which accepts the government's characterization as a war zone, as simply ridiculous," the dissenting judge wrote. "But today's decision goes beyond absurdity."

The action was stopped legally subsequently, and troops have reportedly departed the city.

However, by that time, the frog had become a potent protest icon for the left.

The inflatable suit was seen across the country at No Kings protests that fall. Amphibian costumes were present – along with other creatures – in San Diego and Atlanta and Boston. They appeared in small towns and big international cities abroad.

The frog costume was backordered on online retailers, and became more expensive.

Shaping the Visual Story

The link between the two amphibian symbols – is the dynamic between the silly, innocent image and serious intent. This concept is "tactical frivolity."

The tactic relies on what Mr Bogad terms the "irresistible image" – frequently absurd, it's a "disarming and charming" display that draws focus to your ideas without needing explicitly stating them. This is the unusual prop used, or the meme circulated.

Mr Bogad is both an expert in the subject and someone who uses these tactics. He authored a book on the subject, and taught workshops around the world.

"You could go back to historical periods – when people are dominated, absurd humor is used to express dissent a little bit and still have a layer of protection."

The theory of this approach is multi-faceted, Mr Bogad says.

As activists confront the state, humorous attire {takes control of|seizes|influences