Il panico del terzo mandato
1874
Thomas Nast's 1874 masterpiece is the political cartoon that officially birthed the Republican elephant symbol. In this chaotic scene, a massive elephant labeled 'The Republican Vote' is being stampeded toward a pit of 'Chaos' by a braying donkey wearing a lion's skin. The donkey represents the fear of 'Caesarism'—specifically the rumor that President Ulysses S. Grant wanted a third term—while other animals like a giraffe and ostrich represent various political factions fleeing in panic. It's a brilliant, biting satire on how fear-mongering in the press could easily spook the electorate.
- Technique
- Wood engraving
- Material
- Paper
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