Thomas Nast

Thomas Nast is known as the 'Father of the American Cartoon,' having created satirical art during the 19th century that critiqued slavery and crime.

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Profession :

Illustrator

Birthday :

September 27, 1840

Star Sign :

Libra

Death Date:

December 07, 1902

Age :

62

Birthplace :

Landau, Germany

Thomas Nast, a German-American cartoonist and illustrator, earned the title of the “Father of the American Cartoon” due to his influential and satirical artwork. He rose to prominence during the Reconstruction era with his political cartoons that criticized corruption in New York City politics, advocated for women’s suffrage, and opposed slavery. Nast is responsible for creating the modern depiction of Santa Claus and popularizing the donkey and elephant as symbols for the Democratic and Republican parties, respectively. Additionally, he designed the first known illustration of Uncle Sam, which became an emblem of American patriotism. Among Nast’s most significant accomplishments are his successful campaign against the corrupt machine politics of Tammany Hall and his powerful drawings that challenged readers to face societal contradictions.