VISUAL ACTIVITY

Andrew Jackson as “The Great Father” In 1828, a new process of commercial lithography brought political cartooning to new prominence. Out of some sixty satirical cartoons lampooning Jackson, only one featured his controversial Indian policy. This cropped cartoon lacks the cartoonist’s caption, important for understanding the artist’s intent. Still, the visual humor of Jackson cradling Indians packs an immediate punch.

READING THE IMAGE: Examine the body language conveyed in the various characters’ poses. Are the Indians depicted as children or as powerless, miniature adults? What is going on in the picture on the wall, and how does it relate to Jackson’s Indian removal policy?

CONNECTIONS: Did the Jackson administration protect the Indians? How might Jackson have convinced himself that he was protecting the Indians from certain doom?

William L. Clements Library, University of Michigan.