Why do historians consider political cartoons to be credible resources in historical inquiry
Answers
Historians consider political cartoons to be credible resources in historical inquiry because they give a true picture of the political environment in that particular time period.
We can easily understand the prevailing public opinion by looking at the political cartoons of that time period.
Such cartoons are drawn by knowledgeable people who understand the public mindset very well.
Political cartoons show the actual state of affairs in politics at a given point of time. Hence, they are considered to be credible resources by historians.
Political cartoons are exaggerated illustrations of politicians and other leading figures, satirising their current actions. The illustrations are usually self-explanatory or will be accompanied by a short crisp commentary. It draws attention of the public towards social maladies, corruption and other problems in society at a given point of time. Political cartoons are usually regular features in newspapers and magazines, positioned prominently so as to catch the reader’s attention.