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How the Donkey and Elephant Became U.S. Political Symbols

  • Publish date: Saturday، 10 August 2024 Last update: Tuesday، 05 November 2024
How the Donkey and Elephant Became U.S. Political Symbols

The donkey and elephant became political symbols in the United States through a combination of historical events and the work of political cartoonists, particularly Thomas Nast.

The Donkey as a Symbol for the Democratic Party

The donkey became associated with the Democratic Party during the 1828 presidential campaign of Andrew Jackson. His opponents labeled him a "jackass" (a donkey) because of his populist views and stubborn personality. Rather than reject the label, Jackson embraced the donkey as a symbol of his campaign, representing his toughness and determination. Over time, the donkey became more broadly associated with the Democratic Party.

The Elephant as a Symbol for the Republican Party

The elephant became linked to the Republican Party largely due to the work of political cartoonist Thomas Nast, who is often credited with popularizing both symbols. In an 1874 cartoon published in Harper's Weekly, Nast depicted a donkey (representing the Democratic press) in a lion's skin scaring away animals, including an elephant labeled "The Republican Vote." The cartoon was a commentary on the political climate at the time, and the elephant symbolized the strength and reliability of the Republican vote.

Nast continued to use the elephant to represent the Republican Party in his cartoons, and over time, the symbol became widely accepted.

Thomas Nast's Role

Thomas Nast played a crucial role in solidifying the association of these animals with the two major political parties. His cartoons were influential in the late 19th century, and the symbols he popularized became ingrained in American political culture.

Enduring Symbols

Today, the donkey and the elephant remain enduring symbols of the Democratic and Republican parties, respectively. They are widely recognized in political discourse, campaign materials, and media coverage as representations of the two major political parties in the United States.

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