The Best Political Cartoonists of All Time

Political cartoonists have played a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and critiquing societal norms through their art. Here are some of the most influential political cartoonists in history:​

1. James Gillray (1756–1815)

Often hailed as "the father of the political cartoon," British caricaturist James Gillray was renowned for his satirical depictions of figures such as King George III and Napoleon Bonaparte. His work not only entertained but also provided incisive commentary on the political dynamics of his time. ​

2. Thomas Nast (1840–1902)

An American cartoonist, Thomas Nast is credited with popularizing the Republican elephant and the Democratic donkey symbols. His relentless caricatures of political corruption, particularly targeting New York's Tammany Hall and its leader, Boss Tweed, played a significant role in their eventual downfall. ​

3. Sir John Tenniel (1820–1914)

Best known for his illustrations in Lewis Carroll's "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," Sir John Tenniel was also a prominent political cartoonist for the British magazine Punch. His 1890 cartoon "Dropping the Pilot," depicting the resignation of German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, remains iconic. ​

4. Clifford K. Berryman (1869–1949)

An American cartoonist, Clifford Berryman is remembered for his work with the Washington Post and the Washington Evening Star. His cartoons spanned over five decades, providing commentary on U.S. politics and society.

5. Herbert Block (Herblock) (1909–2001)

Herbert Block, known by his pen name Herblock, was an American editorial cartoonist who chronicled the political landscape for over seven decades. His work, characterized by its sharp wit and insightful commentary, earned him multiple Pulitzer Prizes.​

6. Jules Feiffer (1929–2025)

Jules Feiffer was a Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist and writer known for his influential comic strip "Feiffer," which ran from the late 1950s to 1997 in the Village Voice. His work was syndicated in prominent publications like the New Yorker and Esquire, offering sharp social and political critiques. Feiffer also illustrated the children's novel "The Phantom Tollbooth" and wrote the screenplay for the Oscar-winning animated short "Munro". He passed away in 2025 at the age of 95. ​

7. Ann Telnaes

Ann Telnaes is a contemporary American cartoonist known for her animated editorial cartoons in the Washington Post. Her work often addresses pressing political issues with a distinctive style, earning her the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning in 2001.​

These artists, among others, have utilized their creative talents to reflect, critique, and influence the political and social landscapes of their times.