US History II
Cecala
The Art of Political Cartooning
The political cartoon gives the artist’s message in a simple glance, without a large
amount of writing. The reader gets the message without having to spend time thinking
and analyzing. Yet, to do this, the artist uses a variety of techniques to get his/her point
across.
Here is a list of possible techniques that can be used. An artist can use all or some of
these examples in each illustration.
1. SETTING – any cartoon has to have a location, a setting which gives the reader a point
of reference, that way you can see where the action is happening.
2. TREATMENT OF FIGURE – shows the way the characters are portrayed. The way
they stand, their size, and their facial expressions are very important. Are they large or
small, standing straight or huddled, smiling or serious etc? Their treatment indicates the
message to be given.
3. SYMBOLISM – symbols are very often used to send a message and there are 2 types
of symbols:
A. Formal symbols - symbols which we all recognize to mean something. If you
wish to talk about the U.S. the American flag, the eagle, or Uncle Sam could
be drawn. If you wish to show Russia, a bear or hammer or sickle can be
drawn.
B. Common symbols – these are symbols which everyone recognizes to have a
meaning. If you wish to portray a person in an animal form it makes a big
difference whether you draw a shark, a tiger, a bunny or a chicken to represent
the person.
4. WORDS – cartoons can have some words accompanying it, but they don’t explain the
cartoon, they just add to the message. It could be a title or caption above the picture or it
could be a short comment coming from one of the characters.
US History II
Cecala
The Art of Political Cartooning Project
Primary and secondary sources are vital tools for “doing history”. Not all sources are
written words or tangible artifacts however. Visual sources are also a great way to better
understand a certain historical period. “A picture is worth a thousand words” and the
same can be said for a cartoon. Political cartoonists often deliver a strong but simple
message without using any words at all. In the process of “doing history” political
cartoons can help us understand the feelings and viewpoints of the artist who is often
representing a larger contingent of people who share the same opinions. Political cartoons
are very popular and are a part of the political and pop culture world.
We will examine a number of political cartoons throughout the year. We will analyze
these documents and hope to interpret all of what the artist is trying to tell us. Political
cartoons speak to everyone; they can be understood by people of various backgrounds,
social classes, and by people of any language. They can often be more powerful than
words as their simplicity makes them more appealing to a larger crowd ensuring the
message is seen by a large number of people.
Your Assignment:
Part 1 - You will pick a political cartoon and analyze it. The cartoon does not need to be
specific to the time period we are talking about in US II and can be more current if you
would like. You are going to write a robust one paragraph analysis. Explain what the
artist is trying to say through his/her cartoon. Identify the target of the cartoon, how they
are portrayed, and why it is significant. Also speculate on who you believe the intended
audience is and explain why.
Part 2 – You will create your own political cartoon. You will not be graded on you
artistic ability but rather your understanding of the cartooning process and its intended
purpose. Your cartoon should use the techniques listed on the next page. You do not have
to use WORDS if you do not feel it necessary to add and you only need to use one type of
symbolism. Your cartoon should not have an explanation of what it is you are trying to
say the art should do all of the talking.
Disclaimer – I understand that not all of you are skilled artists, nor am I. However I
would like your political cartoon to be completed neatly. Take your time and try your
best. I would prefer you not hand in a sheet that is full of eraser marks and corrections.
Do a rough draft first! If you are computer savvy I will allow you to create your cartoon
using a computer based program. The quality of your art is not going to hurt your grade
but remember your work represents you…TAKE PRIDE in what you do. You will be
graded on neatness. Finally please make sure that all cartoons are appropriate for
class.
US History II
Cecala
Political Cartoon Gallery Walk
Questions To Consider
1. Based on the political cartoons you viewed what was a motivating factor in
the U.S. desire for overseas territory?
2. How do these political cartoons illustrate the relationship of the United States
and Latin America?
3. What can we learn about American perceptions of inhabitants of foreign
lands?
4. What argument is the Anti-Imperialists and Anti-Expansionists trying to
make with these cartoons?
Develop one question for each of the cartoons you viewed. You will share these
questions with a new partner and try to answer theirs as well.