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WWII cartoon on Australian and American relations featuring three zebras

Artist R W Coulter

Datec 1945

Object number00030019

NameCartoon

MediumInk on paper

DimensionsOverall: 217 x 244 mm, 30 g

ClassificationsArt

Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Josef Lebovic Gallery

Terms

DescriptionThis cartoon is a reproduction from The Bulletin magazine around 1945. It depicts two shocked adult zebras looking at a foal which has stripes in the form of the United States flag. An inscription reads beneath the image reads 'Reproduction from the 'bulletin' during the first American invasion of 1945'.HistoryWhen The Bulletin was founded in 1880, it became first Australian news magazine to use political cartoons from its very first issue. With the introduction of American engraving equipment a few years later, the reproduction and publication of cartoons became quicker and easier. During World War II, 'black-and-white artist' - as cartoonists were known - became more prevalent and powerful in their commentaries. Reg W Coulter was an Australian political illustrator and writer for The Bulletin in the 1930s and 1940s, where he worked with contemporaries Norman Lyndsay and David Souter.SignificanceThis satirical cartoon highlights the public reaction to the 'invasion' of Australia by American troops during Wolrd War II. The United States forces played a dominant role in the war with Japan, particularly in the south-west Pacific region. Thousands of US troops streamed into Australia, resulting in complex socio-economic changes to Australian society.