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Cartoon, The State Waggoner and John Bull
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Cartoon, The State Waggoner and John Bull
Cartoon, The State Waggoner and John Bull, or, the Waggon too much for the Donkeys! together with a distant view of the New Coalition among Johnnys Old Horses, by James Gillray. A satire on the ineffective Addington-led government, with the wagon of state bogged down in the mud, while out-of-office Tories and Whigs seem willing to form a coalition to take charge and put things right. Date: 1804
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Media ID 14230265
© The Sharp Illustration Collection / Mary Evans Picture Library
1800s 1804 Addington Budget Bull Coalition Comment Conservative Conservatives Criticism Defence Donkeys Finance Gillray Harsh Ineffective Invasion Legislation Minister Office Politicians Prime Satire Satirical Tories Tory Treasury Waggon Wagon Whig Whigs Bogged Waggoner
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EDITORS COMMENTS
James Gillray's satirical print, "The State Waggoner and John Bull, or, the Waggon too much for the Donkeys!," created in 1804, offers a scathing commentary on the ineffective Addington-led government through the metaphor of a wagon bogged down in the mud. The cartoon depicts a large, overburdened wagon labeled "State" being pulled by a team of exhausted donkeys, symbolizing the government's inability to move forward due to its own weight and the burden of poor leadership. John Bull, a symbol of the British people, stands nearby, looking on in frustration. In the background, a group of out-of-office Tories and Whigs, represented by horses, are gathered and appear ready to form a new coalition, suggesting that they may be better equipped to tackle the challenges facing the nation. The New Coalition is visible in the distance, hinting at the potential for political change and the possibility of more effective governance. The cartoon's harsh criticism of the Addington government is evident in the image of the bogged-down wagon, which symbolizes the financial, legislative, and defensive woes of the time. These issues included a lack of progress on the Treasury, stalled legislation, and concerns over invasion. The cartoon's historical significance lies in its reflection of the political climate during the early 19th century, offering a glimpse into the complexities of British politics during this period. James Gillray's masterful use of satire and symbolism in "The State Waggoner and John Bull" continues to captivate audiences today, providing a unique perspective on the political landscape of the time and the role of humor in shaping public opinion.
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