How do you analyze a political cartoon

You have to look at the picture and study the small details and what they could possibly mean in a political manner.  You would have to read the caption at the bottom and also, if there is dialogue within the cartoon, it might be helpful to read that.


Look to see what stands out to you and what all is shown. Look for symbols and details.

Uncle Sam and Mule
This cartoon shows Uncle Sam tied to a tree while trying to get ahold of a mule with the label "Philippines."  This is like the United States taking control of the Philippines.

boy = Philippines

Independence Day

This cartoon shows Hawaii, the Philippines, and Cuba celebrating independence day.  Children civilized the role of the United States, so that is why children are used in this cartoon.  The Philippines has feathers in his hair like and American Indian because of racial issues.

This cartoon shows President McKinley carrying a little helpless boy.  The boy represents the Philippines.  McKinley seems to be contemplating over whether to keep the boy or let him go on his own.  This is like the
Philippines when he had to decide whether to keep the islands, or give them back to Spain.