Purchase of Alaska 2

“The Big Thing”

Purchase of Alaska (2)

 

 

 

This particular cartoon “The Big Thing” focuses on the issue of the Purchase of Alaska. In this particular cartoon, it focuses on how the U.S. should purchase Alaska. In a seat, King Andy is sitting and it appears that a religious person is rubbing Russian salve on his head to “soothe him.”  In the background, a map shows a picture of the Russian Fairy Land saying “only $7,000,000 in Gold.”

This cartoonist uses exaggeration as the persuasive technique. The way the religious figure is holding the head of King Andy is certainly overblown! The map of the Russian Fairy Land in the backdrop is also a bit overdone as well. The reflection in the mirror has a false image of King Andy wearing a crown (which he is NOT actually wearing!) This cartoon assumes that the American Imperialistic views will sway anyone (with the little help of some Russian Salve!).