Political Cartoon 2- Rise it Will

Political Cartoon 2- Rise it Will

1. Interpret the cartoon. What historical event/issue is being represented?

The event being depicted in this cartoon is the ratification of the Constitution by the 13 states. This shows how after the big states such as Virginia and New York ratified the Constitution the smaller states such as Rhode Island and North Carolina really had no choice but to ratify considering the amount of influence the bigger states commanded based on their size and population.

2. What is the message that the cartoonist is trying to convey? Which side of the issue does he support

The cartoonist is trying to show that once the remaining states ratify the constitution the nation will form a very strong nation that will be incredibly prosperous. The line “The foundation good - it may yet be saved” implies that with the ratification of the constitution comes the salvation and formation of a great country.

3. What effect(s) did this cartoon have on American History? What were the results of this issue being addressed?

This cartoon helped drive Virginia to ratify the constitution and in turn help push the remaining states to ratify the constitution as well. This made for the formation of a great foundation to a government where the states and federal government had apparently equal power and say.