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In May 2016, a 3-year-old boy fell into the gorilla enclosure at the Cincinnati Zoo, coming face-to-face with Harambe, a 17-year-old silverback. For several tense minutes, Harambe stayed near the child and then dragged him through the water.
Zoo staff, fearing for the boy’s life, made the painful decision to shoot and kill Harambe. The child survived with minor injuries, but the incident sparked global outrage, debate, and a flood of internet memes.
To some, Harambe was a misunderstood guardian; to others, a danger. His death raised lasting questions about zoo safety, parenting, and keeping wild animals in captivity—making Harambe an enduring symbol of both tragedy and change.
