Political cartoons have a rich history, beginning in the 16th century with the Protestant Reformation. Benjamin Franklin's 'Join or Die' in 1754 marked a significant development, symbolizing the fragmented American colonies. James Gillray, known as the father of political cartoons, gained fame in the late 18th century for his satirical works targeting King George III. The American Civil War era saw Thomas Nast create iconic images like Uncle Sam and the political party symbols. Today, political cartoons continue to be a vital part of newspaper editorials, offering commentary on current events.

Which artist is known as the father of political cartoons?

What iconic characters did Thomas Nast create during the American Civil War?