Political Caricatures of the American Era

Political Caricatures in the American Era

• Political caricatures serve as editorial commentary on political figures and current events, often portraying exaggerated representations of public figures.
• During the American administration, political cartoons in the Philippines flourished, reflecting national sentiments about American colonization.
• Alfred W. McCoy, a prominent historian and educator born in Massachusetts in 1945, is known for his work in political cartoons during this period.

Significant Political Cartoons

• Public Post is Not a Hereditary Crown (1916)

  • Features Dr. Santos from Tondo passing his political position to his brother-in-law, Dr. Barcelona.
  • Highlights the perception of political dynasties and nepotism in Philippine politics.

• War Against Speculators (1917)

  • Created by Fernando Amorsolo, this cartoon shows a starving Filipino boy stealing a chicken, depicting the struggles of the poor.
  • Critiques the inefficacies of the Manila Police in addressing socio-economic disparities.

• Colorum Cars

  • A satirical cartoon addresses the dangers associated with unregulated 'colorum' vehicles (illegal taxis) operating in city streets.
  • Reflects societal concerns over public safety and regulatory challenges faced by authorities.

• Cinema Restrictions

  • An animation portrays a police officer enforcing moral standards in cinemas, illustrating societal norms and censorship during that era.
  • Highlights the conflict between personal freedoms and public morality in early 20th-century Philippines.

Learning Outcomes

• Analyze the context and perspectives of McCoy's political caricatures within the American colonial framework.
• Examine how these caricatures mirrored societal realities, political issues, and public sentiment during the American period in the Philippines.