Home > Humour > Children
Cartoon, John Bulls Alien Act
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Cartoon, John Bulls Alien Act
Cartoon, John Bulls Alien Act -- a satirical comment on an incident which took place on 10 April 1848, when a Frenchman was heard shouting out that all the English were cowards, for which he was knocked down by a butchers boy. Date: 1848
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23275782
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1840s 1848 Bull Cliffs Communism Dover Invasion Kick Kicking Papers Satire Satirical Sedition Threat
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
John Bull's Alien Act
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a satirical political cartoon from the 1840s, published in response to an incident that took place on 10 April 1848 in Dover, England. The image depicts a Frenchman, identified by his beret and baguette, standing atop a cliff overlooking the English Channel, threateningly brandishing a red flag with the hammer and sickle symbol of communism. John Bull, the personification of England, is shown below, with a large hat and a stack of newspapers in hand, as a butcher boy kicks him in retaliation for the Frenchman's insults about English cowardice. The cartoon was created in the context of growing tensions between France and Britain during the 1840s, with fears of a French invasion stoking anxiety and xenophobia in the British public. The Alien Act of 1848, which the cartoon references in its title, was a controversial piece of legislation that allowed for the deportation of foreigners deemed to be a threat to public order or national security. The cartoon's satirical commentary on the Act and the incident in Dover reflects the complex political climate of the time, as well as the role of humor and visual imagery in shaping public opinion. The image is a poignant reminder of the early Victorian era's political landscape, with its complex interplay of nationalism, xenophobia, and fear of the "other." It also speaks to the power of cartoons and satire as a means of engaging with contemporary issues and shaping public discourse. The cartoon's enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the spirit of the times and offer a humorous yet insightful commentary on the events and issues of the day.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
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.
