It was a shocking twist in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) when Steve Rogers, aka Captain America, decided to pass on the shield and title to his best friend, Sam Wilson, instead of his protégé, Bucky Barnes, in the 2019 film “Avengers: Endgame.” This decision has sparked curiosity among fans, raising questions about the reasoning behind Steve’s choice. Here are some reasons why Sam Wilson became Captain America over Bucky Barnes.
First and foremost, Sam’s moral compass and personality align with the values of the character. Like Steve, Sam is a natural leader with a strong sense of justice, conviction, and compassion. He has a deep understanding of the world and its complexities, which makes him an excellent fit for the role. Additionally, Sam has been a close friend and ally of Steve’s for years, having fought alongside him in numerous battles and mission.
Steve’s decision to choose Sam was also influenced by his own experiences and the lessons learned from his time as Captain America. He realized that being a hero is not just about physical strength or combat skills but also about empathy, humility, and serving as a symbol of hope. Sam, with his background as a black person in America, brings a new perspective and experience to the role, which could help bridge the gap between the franchise’s diverse fanbase.
Moreover, Bucky Barnes, a complex and multifaceted character, had already faced significant trauma and was struggling with his own personal demons. Steve, having gone through a similar journey himself, recognized that Bucky might not be ready or able to bear the weight of being Captain America. Sam, on the other hand, was already an experienced and capable superhero in his own right, having worked with the Avengers and been involved in various missions.
In the end, Steve chose Sam because he saw a reflection of his own values, skills, and personality in him. By passing on the shield, Steve entrusted the mantle of Captain America to a worthy successor, ensuring the future of the character and the world, as well as the values it represents.
