A war president. Progressive democracy; N. Currier (Firm), ; [New York : N. Currier]
![A war president. Progressive democracy; N. Currier (Firm), ; [New York : N. Currier]](/p/694/war-president-progressive-democracy-n-12683407.jpg.webp "A war president. Progressive democracy; N. Currier (Firm), ; [New York : N. Currier]")
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Liszt Collection
A war president. Progressive democracy; N. Currier (Firm), ; [New York : N. Currier]
A war president. Progressive democracy; N. Currier (Firm), ; [New York : N. Currier], c1848.; 1 print on wove paper : lithograph; image 33.8 x 42.7 cm.; A caricature of Democratic candidate Lewis Cass, a general in the War of 1812, suggesting that his expansionist leanings would lead the United States into war. Cass (dubbed " General Gas" by the unfriendly press) is pictured as a veritable war machine. He sits on a wheeled gun-carriage, with his various limbs and body parts in the form of cannon shells and barrels shooting " gas" and shot. Over his head he waves a bloody saber labeled " Manifest Destiny, " while reciting, " New Mexico, California, Chihuahua, Zacatecas, MEXICO, Peru, Yucatan, Cuba." These reflect, with some exaggeration, Casss ambitious agenda for territorial expansion in the wake of American victory in the Mexican War. In his left hand he holds a spear
Liszt Collection of nineteenth-century engravings and images to browse and enjoy
Media ID 12683407
© Quint Lox Limited
1812 California Caricature Cuba Firm General Mexico New Mexico Peru Pictured Wove Paper Yucatan C1848 Chihuahua Manifest Destiny Suggesting Zacatecas
EDITORS COMMENTS
The print titled "A war president. Progressive democracy" captures a caricature of Lewis Cass, the Democratic candidate for presidency in 1848. The lithograph, created by N. Currier (Firm) in New York, portrays Cass as a formidable war machine with his body parts transformed into cannon shells and barrels shooting "gas" and shot. Dubbed "General Gas" by the press, Cass is depicted sitting on a wheeled gun-carriage, symbolizing his expansionist leanings that could potentially lead the United States into war. Above his head, he waves a bloody saber labeled "Manifest Destiny" representing Cass's ambitious agenda for territorial expansion following American victory in the Mexican War. His recitation of various locations such as New Mexico, California, Chihuahua, Zacatecas, Mexico City, Peru, Yucatan, and Cuba highlights his desire to extend American influence far beyond its current borders. This satirical portrayal exaggerates Cass's aggressive stance on territorial acquisition and criticizes him for potentially dragging the nation into unnecessary conflicts. It reflects concerns about the consequences of unchecked expansionism during this period. The print offers insight into political dynamics during the mid-19th century when issues surrounding Manifest Destiny and territorial expansion were prominent themes in American politics. It serves as a reminder of how political cartoons have long been used to convey messages and critique candidates' policies throughout history.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
