Steve Rogers had taken emotional management classes.
That had been one of the countless courses Nick Fury arranged for him after he was pulled from the ice and had somewhat familiarized himself with modern society. The then-director of S.H.I.E.L.D. knew very well the kind of social influence Steve Rogers wielded as Captain America. Even though much of the title's influence came from Cold War-era propaganda campaigns and Hollywood's endless exaggeration in film and television, and even Steve Rogers himself did not recognize the altered historical events, none of that could change his influence or the fact that he would eventually have to face the public.
Emotional management classes were important. He needed to present the perfect Captain America image that matched the public's imagination.
Back when he had only just adapted to modern society, they had discussed the title of Captain America. The Emperor had shown him why he had to eradicate religious superstition and personality cults. Even though Steve Rogers had not understood the Emperor's foresight at the time, he could now see that nearly everything mentioned in that almost prophetic conversation was coming true.
"They're only worshipping the Captain America in their hearts."
"What are you talking about?" Sam Wilson, who had just been stuffing pie into his mouth, abruptly stopped. "Who's worshipping Captain America? Or rather, what's so strange about worshipping Captain America?"
"That's not what he means, Sam." James Buchanan Barnes did not even raise his head as he continued eating his late dinner at an unhurried pace. Eating inside an Armored Personnel Carrier was not particularly terrible; everyone here was used to it. It was just that the reusable self-heating cookware was rather advanced. "Steve means they aren't worshipping him. They're worshipping Captain America."
"I'm a little confused. Why would you say that? Is it