Panama Canal (2)

“The Coup d’ETAT”

         

 

 

This political cartoon is about the Panama Canal. The cartoonist’s message on this issue is that Theodore Roosevelt is ready to jump off of the ship and dig the Panama Canal. It shows aggression and even bullying by the United States over the canal.  Another opinion that one may have over this cartoon could be that Teddy Roosevelt looks as if he’s ready to go to war over the digging of the Panama Canal.

           Two techniques the cartoonist uses to make the cartoon persuasive are symbolism and labeling. The cartoonist used symbolism because the front of the ship is carved out as an elephant which symbolizes his membership of the Republican Party.  Also along the same theme, labeling is clear as there is a flag at the front and top of the ship that states “U.S. GOP.”  This political cartoon supports my position on American Imperialism as there is a tiny figure at the bottom of the loading dock off of the boat with arms extended out, appearing to push back the U.S. and their interests in digging the Panama Canal. Also, there is a group in the backdrop that looks to be angry and ready to fight in defiance of the U.S.’s interest in digging the Panama Canal.