Thomas Nast
Early Life
Thomas Nast was born on September 27, 1840, in Landau, Germany. His father, Appolonia Nast, was a musician in the Bavarian 9th regiment band. In 1846, his father decided to emigrate to the United States of America, and Nast was sent to school in New York City.
Career
Nast began his career as an illustrator at the age of 15, working for the Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper. He then moved on to the New York Illustrated News and the Harper's Weekly, where he developed a distinctive style of political cartooning.
Nast's cartoons played a significant role in the political landscape of the time. He is often credited with creating the modern image of Santa Claus, and his depictions of the Democratic Party's donkey and the Republican Party's elephant have become iconic symbols in American politics.
Nast's work was influential in shaping public opinion during the American Civil War and the Reconstruction Era. His cartoons were instrumental in the downfall of the corrupt Tammany Hall political machine in New York City.
Later Life and Legacy
Nast continued to work as a cartoonist until his death in 1902. His work has been widely studied and appreciated for its impact on American culture and politics. Today, he is often referred to as the "Father of the American Cartoon."