Political Cartoon Analysis: Karl Marx called for “CLASS WARFARE” (Proletariat v. Bourgeoisie). In Russia, China, and other places this warfare lead to revolution. The idea of CLASS WARFARE is still part of our social dialogue. President Obama suggested higher taxes for the wealthy and his opponents (generally speaking Republicans and the rich themselves) have opposed this. The RIGHT accused him of “CLASS WARFARE” President Obama is caricatured by his most prominent feature: his ears. Cartoonists exaggerate the size of his ears. Some terms you need to know: Left = Liberal, usually Democrats, believe in higher taxes for the rich and more help for the poor. Often symbolized by a DONKEY. Obamacare: Actually called the Affordable Care Act. Created by President Obama to provide health insurance to the poor. Government run program, very expensive considered as government overreach by the right wing / Republicans. Right = Conservative, usually Republican, believe in tax cuts for all, are very pro-business, and look for the poor to help themselves with less government support. Often symbolized by an ELEPHANT. Or the initials GOP: Grand Old Party. Political cartoonists make a political statement that has a definite point of view. Interpret these cartoons from the Obama presidency and identify:

1. What message the cartoonist is trying get across? 2. Is the cartoon left-wing or right-wing? 3. Pro-Obama or Anti-Obama (when appropriate)

CARTOON #1 Mr. Buffet = Warren Buffet, one of the top five wealthiest men in the world who wants the rich to be taxed at a higher level. Some call him a traitor to his class. GOP = Republican Fat Cats = negative term applied to the super rich

CARTOON #2 Deferment = the ability to delay entry into military service. Often used by influential people to have their children to avoid military service. Donald Trump and Bill Clinton had deferments to avoid serving in the Vietnam War.

CARTOON #3 Elephants = symbol of the Republican Party Oliver Twist = story of orphan who dares to ask for more food in his orphanage

CARTOON #4

CARTOON #5 Socialism = political system often incorrectly compared to communism. Relies on redistribution of income based on wealth

CARTOON #6 Left = Liberal Democrats most of whom favor higher taxes for the wealthy

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CARTOON #10

President elect Donald Trump: Republican

CARTOON #11