Political+Cartoons

Political cartoons give historians an idea of what newspapers and their readers were thinking about political actions. Below are pictures of John A. MacDonald (Canada's first Prime Minister), and a selection that revolve around the annexation vs. confederation debate.

John A. MacDonald


(from image) JOHN A -- "I don't know, but it seems to me this picture of yours my prophetic friend, needs a little 're-adjustment.' Don't it, hey?"

"O, Our Prophetic Soul!" © Public Domain Source: //A caricature history of Canadian politics : events from the union of 1841, as illustrated by cartoons from "Grip" and various other sources// by J. W. Bengough, With an introd. by Rev. Grant, Toronto, Grip Print. and Pub. Co., 1886. - Toronto : P. Martin Associates, 1974

Annexation V.S oNED IRECTION


ONJE DIRECTION IS THE BEST BAND EVER EVER jwitgfYIFGkiFI LIVE ON :))))))))

 The project of an all-rail route from the Atlantic to the Pacific on Canadian territory had begun to be put forth. The incredulity attributed to Uncle Sam in the cartoon was fully shared by many more immediately interested parties. The year 1886, however, saw the feat accomplished.

(from image) MISS CANADA -- "This is what we want, cousin Jonathan. It will give us real independence and stop the foolish talk about annexation." JONATHAN -- "Wal, Miss, I guess you're about right that; but I'll believe it when I see it."

"From Halifax to Vancouver". © Public Domain Source: //A Caricature History of Canadian Politics// by J. W. A. Bengough, Vol. 1&2, Toronto: The Grip Printing & Publishing Co., 1886

Upper and Lower Canada will be consumed by Confederation or Annexation. Abraham Lincoln intends to devour turkeys and cooks alike (1865).

" La question" © Public Domain Source: Great Canadian political cartoons, 1820 to 1914 by Charles and Cynthia Hou, Vancouver : Moody's Lookout Press, 1997 **Reflection**