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TAX CARTOON, 1921. The tired business man. Drawing by Paul Reilly
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TAX CARTOON, 1921. The tired business man. Drawing by Paul Reilly
TAX CARTOON, 1921.
The tired business man. Drawing by Paul Reilly
Granger holds millions of images spanning more than 25,000 years of world history, from before the Stone Age to the dawn of the Space Age
Media ID 12322408
1921 Boulder Businessman Commerce Federal Finance Hill Income Tax Paul Political Rolling Reilly Sisyphus
EDITORS COMMENTS
This vintage tax cartoon from 1921, drawn by Paul Reilly, captures the exhaustion and frustration of a tired businessman. Set against the backdrop of early American commerce, this political satire reflects the burden imposed by federal income taxes on hardworking individuals. The image portrays a man pushing a massive boulder uphill, reminiscent of Sisyphus from Greek mythology. Symbolizing the never-ending cycle of work and taxation, it highlights the relentless struggle faced by businessmen during that era. The artist's skillful use of caricature brings out the weariness in the businessman's face as he rolls his burdensome load uphill. His hunched posture and strained expression perfectly convey his fatigue after toiling tirelessly for financial success while grappling with complex tax regulations. This thought-provoking illustration serves as a reminder that even in 1921, Americans were grappling with issues surrounding finance and taxation. It offers us an intriguing glimpse into historical attitudes towards income tax and its impact on individuals striving to build their businesses. As we reflect upon this print today, it prompts us to consider how far we have come in terms of tax policies and their effects on entrepreneurs. This timeless piece invites contemplation about our own relationship with taxes and encourages us to appreciate both past struggles and present progress in navigating these economic challenges.
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