A lesson focusing on the analysis of primary source political cartoons from the 1920s, covering immigration, prohibition, the economy, and political scandals. Students will learn to decode symbolism and historical context through visual media.
1. Why did the artist choose a "rolling oil drum" to represent this scandal? What does this suggest about the scandal's momentum?
2. Who are the primary victims of the "oil drum" according to the cartoon? Why is this significant?
3. Based on this image, what was the general public's feeling toward the Harding administration's honesty?
The Big Picture
The 1920s is often called the "Roaring Twenties," suggesting a time of pure celebration. However, looking at these cartoons, what "roaring" tensions or problems were hidden beneath the surface of the era? Use at least two examples from above.
Old King Alcohol: His skeleton suggests the death of the liquor industry.
Cartoon 3 Analysis: The Bull Market
Historical Context
The 1920s saw a massive boom in the stock market. However, much of this was based on "buying on margin" (using loans to buy stock). Investors believed the bull market would never end, ignoring underlying weaknesses in agriculture and rising debt.
Key Interpretations
The Bull: Represents the charging, uncontrolled growth of the market. Its size relative to the people suggests it is too big to handle.
Debt Cloud: Foreshadows the 1929 Great Depression. It looms over the prosperity, suggesting that the "gold mountain" is precarious.
The People: Represent the "speculators" who are in over their heads.
Cartoon 4 Analysis: Teapot Dome
Historical Context
The Teapot Dome Scandal (1921-1923) was the most famous scandal of Warren G. Harding's administration. Secretary of the Interior Albert Fall took bribes to lease Navy oil reserves to private companies. He became the first cabinet member to go to prison.
Key Interpretations
The Oil Drum/Steamroller: Represents the sheer weight of the corruption. Once it started rolling (the scandal broke), it was unstoppable and crushed everything in its path.
Integrity/Honor: These abstract concepts are the "casualties" of the scandal, showing the erosion of public trust.
Politicians: Shown as cowardly or complicit, unable to stop the momentum.
Instructional Strategy: See-Think-Wonder
Step 1: SEE
Ask students to describe only what they literally see (labels, shapes, characters) without interpreting yet. This prevents jumping to conclusions.
Step 2: THINK
Ask: "What do you think is happening here?" or "Why did the artist use this specific symbol?" Connect the visuals to 1920s vocabulary.
Step 3: WONDER
Ask: "What does this tell us about the creator's bias?" or "How would a different group of people feel about this cartoon?"
