imgflip.com/i/59rhoj Yes, according to some, this image from a newspaper comic in 1921 was the first meme, based on a similar comic strip from 1919. The word "meme" did not come into use until 1975. Some define centuries-old wall, cave and cliff paintings that include words as memes. By this definition, memes were prevalent during wartime, a prime example being the Kilroy Was Here "memes" of the world wars. 1680 had the Pueblo Revolt when the first nation Pueblos took back Santa Fe from the Spaniards. So, if I had to guess (and it looks like I do indeed have to guess), was it something in Santa Fe?