Before appearing in the united states
Caricatures and mocking sketches have appeared for centuries in Europe.
"Join or die"
The First reported use of a cartoon for political purpose was the "Join or Die" sketch by Ben Franklin in 1754, depicting a snake cut into pieces to symbolize the fracturing of the early American colonies. However, it wasn't until the 1800s when political cartoons finally kicked off into prominence.
staying on the down-low
Political cartoons were often posted on walls or passed from person to person during the 18th and 19th century. They were also published in newspapers. However, it did not make a significant impact and thus, it stayed on the down-low for a quite amount of time.
Lucas Cranach the Elder drew political cartoons for the pamphlet "Passional Christi und Antichristi" (As shown on right)
Lucas Cranach the Elder drew political cartoons for the pamphlet "Passional Christi und Antichristi" (As shown on right)