Why is it that hitch hikers stick out their thumbs? Where did this originate from if at all?

Question

I've never been able to find anything on the reason that sticking out your thumb is symbolic for hitch hiking...any thoughts?

Answer 1

Thumb Hitch hiking is gone back to as far as before the 1930's
To seek or get (a ride or lift) in a passing vehicle by signalling with one's thumb the direction in which one hopes to travel.
Hitchhiking (also called lifting, thumbing or hitching, Thumb up a ride) is a form of transport, in which the traveller tries to get a lift (ride) from another traveller, usually a car or truck driver or occasionally even a motorcycle driver. Hitchhiking is also called by the French term autostop, especially in Europe.

Answer 2

Really interesting question. I couldn't find any answer on the web. I'll be looking for answers from somebody.

I did find a site that discussed the different ways one signals for a ride in different countries. Perhaps this will help ferret out the original of "the thumb".

Answer 3

They are pointing down the road, meaning they are going that way. Their arm is up to signal the car that they need them to get there.

Answer 4

because when you hitchhike you walk backwards and the thumb is the only digits that will point in the diection you want to travel.