Cartoons have been used as political and social commentary for centuries. The earliest known cartoon was published in the British satirical magazine Punch in 1843, depicting Prime Minister Robert Peel being attacked by a donkey.
Cartoonists continue to use their platform to comment on current events and critique leaders and societal issues.
During World War II, both sides of the conflict utilized cartoons as propaganda tools. Cartoon characters such as Bugs Bunny and Donald Duck were enlisted to promote war bonds and inspire patriotism among citizens.
In recent years, cartoons such as “The Simpsons” and “South Park” have become infamous for their sharp satire and criticism of politics and popular culture.
Cartoon history is not just about funny drawings – it is also a reflection of the times they were created. Cartoonists often serve as the people’s voice, using their illustrations to speak truth to power and spark meaningful conversations.