On this day in 1754, Benjamin Franklin published one of the most famous cartoons in history: the "Join, or Die" woodcut. Franklin’s art carried significant importance at the time and is considered an early masterpiece of political messaging.
"Join, or Die" may be one of the most heavily used images in units covering the American Revolution, but it was published long before that and used long after. Here are two resources that provide interesting background notes on the history and uses of the image:
Today in History - May 9 (Library of Congress)
The story behind the Join or Die snake cartoon (Constitution Daily)
https://www.loc.gov/item/2002695523/
3 - 5 6 - 8 9 - 12 Art/Music Social Studies/History Benjamin Franklin political cartoons
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I just love this image. It appears so simple but there are so many interpretations a viewer might make once they start analyzing it and applying their personal background knowledge.
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