The Falcon & The Winter Soldier: 10 Biggest Takeaways From Episode One
2. Sam Was Betrayed By The Government
When Steve returned from living his life with Peggy, he gave Sam his shield as a symbol that he was the right man to carry on the legacy that it represented. However, since Sam didn't feel like anyone could continue what he started, he decided to instead donate the weapon to the Smithsonian Museum.
This was a tough decision he had to make after much soul searching, and was encouraged by the US Department of Defence to do so in spite of the world's need for heroes. However, he was betrayed by the government when that same shield he was told he should give up was given to someone else.
There may ultimately be no one fit to carry on the Captain America legacy left behind by Steve Rogers, but if there is one person that deserves the opportunity, it is Sam Wilson. He was Cap's right hand man for many years, he learned from him, and saved the world with him.
Clearly, Sam is the best man for the job should the Captain America name live on, yet the US government felt a man with none of the above was better suited than the Avenger in a decision that has angered fans everywhere.