Description
In its February 17, 1877, edition, Harper’s Weekly published an illustration by Thomas Nast that depicted what he hoped would emerge from the electoral commission created by Congress at the end of January. While many in the country feared another civil war, Nast hoped that the commission would allow Congress to settle the impasse without violence. Nast, a Republican, drew the hand of a Republican holding down the hand of a Democrat reaching for a pistol atop a stack of papers that warned of civil war if Samuel Tilden were not to become President.
Transcript of "A Truce" Political Cartoon
Source-Dependent Questions
- According to the artist, Thomas Nast, what did many Americans fear between election day in November 1876 and inauguration day in March 1877?
- How did Nast view the election commission created by Congress to settle the disputed election between Rutherford B. Hayes and Samuel J. Tilden? Explain using evidence from the text and imagery included in the illustration.
- What was Nast's opinion of the Democratic Party? Explain using evidence from the illustration.
- What might Nast be referring to when he mentions "high-toned gentlemen?" How might the use of this reference reflect his or society's attitudes regarding race at the time?
Citation Information
Nast, Thomas, "A truce - not a compromise, but a chance for high-toned gentlemen to retire gracefully from their very civil declarations of war / Th. Nast," Harper's Weekly, 1877. Courtesy of Library of Congress