List of Famous Political Cartoonists Around the World

Top 10 British Political Cartoonists

Gerald Scarfe (born 1936)

• • Scarfe’s work often features grotesque and exaggerated caricatures.
  • He has worked for The Sunday Times, The New Yorker, and The Pink Floyd, creating animations for “The Wall” tour.
  • Scarfe’s cartoons satirize political figures and events, contributing to his reputation as one of the foremost British satirical artists.

Steve Bell (born 1951)

• • Bell is the editorial cartoonist for The Guardian, where he has worked since 1981.
  • Known for his sharp and often provocative cartoons, he tackles a wide range of political and social issues.
  • His strip “If…” is a long-running and influential feature in The Guardian.

Matt (Matthew Pritchett) (born 1964)

• • Pritchett has been the daily pocket cartoonist for The Daily Telegraph since 1988.
  • Known for his distinctive style and clever wit, he offers humorous takes on current events, politics, and everyday life.
  • Matt has won several awards for his contributions to British journalism.

David Low (1891-1963)

• • Originally from New Zealand, Low became one of Britain’s leading cartoonists.
  • His work for The Evening Standard and The Manchester Guardian during the early to mid-20th century earned him widespread acclaim.
  • Low’s anti-fascist cartoons during World War II were particularly influential.

Martin Rowson (born 1959)

• • Rowson is a cartoonist and satirical artist whose work appears in The Guardian and other publications.
  • He has also written and illustrated books, including graphic novel adaptations of classic literature.
  • Known for his detailed and often darkly humorous approach to political satire.

Ronald Searle (1920-2011)

• • Searle was known for his distinctive and detailed drawing style.
  • His St Trinian’s series, featuring mischievous schoolgirls, gained immense popularity.
  • Searle’s work often combined dark humor with a keen social commentary.

Posy Simmonds (born 1945)

• • Simmonds is a cartoonist and graphic novelist.
  • She is known for her comic strips, including “The Silent Three” and “Gemma Bovery.”
  • Simmonds often satirizes contemporary British society, addressing issues such as class, gender, and relationships.

Peter Brookes (born 1943)

• • Brookes has been the editorial cartoonist for The Times since 1992.
  • His cartoons cover a wide range of political topics with a focus on British and international affairs.
  • Brookes has won multiple awards for his contributions to political cartooning.

Michael Heath (born 1943)

• • Heath is a British cartoonist and humorist.
  • He contributed to the satirical magazine Private Eye and The Spectator.
  • Known for his irreverent and often controversial cartoons that provide a humorous take on politics and society.

Scarlett (Claire Hardiman)

• • Scarlett is a contemporary British cartoonist.
  • She has contributed to various publications, offering a satirical take on current events, politics, and culture.
  • Scarlett is recognized for her unique style and ability to convey sharp social commentary through her cartoons.

Top 10 Political Cartoonists From Arab

Khalid Albaih (born 1980, Sudan/Qatar)

• • Sudanese political cartoonist based in Qatar.
  • Gained international recognition for his cartoons during the Arab Spring.
  • Uses social media to share his cartoons addressing global political issues.

Ali Farzat (born 1951, Syria)

• • Syrian cartoonist and satirist.
  • Known for his critical cartoons targeting political figures, including Bashar al-Assad.
  • Faced censorship and harassment in Syria, leading to an attack in 2011 where he was severely beaten.

Doaa Eladl (born 1979, Egypt)

• • Egyptian cartoonist known for her work addressing social and political issues.
  • One of the few female cartoonists in the Arab world.
  • Her cartoons often focus on women’s rights, societal norms, and political events.

Nadia Khiari (born 1982, Tunisia)

• • Tunisian cartoonist and illustrator.
  • Creator of the character “Willis from Tunis,” a cat that humorously comments on social and political issues.
  • Addresses topics like censorship, freedom of expression, and political satire.

Stavro Jabra (born 1966, Lebanon)

• • Lebanese cartoonist and illustrator.
  • Known for his satirical cartoons in various Lebanese and Arab publications.
  • His cartoons often address the complexities of Lebanese and regional politics.

Salim Zerrouki (born 1965, Algeria)

• • Algerian cartoonist known for his work in El Watan and Le Matin.
  • His cartoons address political and social issues in Algeria and the wider Arab world.
  • Won several awards for his contributions to cartooning.

Emad Hajjaj (born 1967, Jordan)

• • Jordanian cartoonist and caricaturist.
  • His cartoons appear in various Arab newspapers, addressing political and social issues.
  • Known for his bold and critical commentary on regional politics.

Makhlouf (Mohammed Bakir Khaili, born 1961, Algeria)

• • Algerian cartoonist and illustrator.
  • His cartoons cover various political and social issues in Algeria.
  • Known for his distinctive style and ability to convey complex issues through humor.

Fadi Abou Hassan (born 1973, Jordan)

• • Jordanian cartoonist and graphic designer.
  • His cartoons, published in various Arab media outlets, address political and social issues.
  • Focuses on issues such as corruption, freedom of expression, and human rights.

Hossam el-Hamalawy (born 1977, Egypt)

• • Egyptian cartoonist and activist.
  • Known for his political cartoons addressing issues such as human rights and political repression.
  • Also a prominent blogger and journalist.

Top 10 Political Cartoonists From Asia

Mario Miranda (1926–2011, India)

• • An iconic Indian cartoonist known for his detailed and humorous illustrations.
  • His cartoons, often featuring the characters Miss Fonseca and the Common Man, reflect a keen observation of Indian society.

Lat (Mohammad Nor Khalid, born 1951, Malaysia)

• • Malaysian cartoonist, known for his editorial cartoons that satirize political and social issues.
  • Created the popular character “Ketupat,” a satirical figure representing the common Malaysian.

Aseem Trivedi (born 1987, India)

• • Indian political cartoonist and free speech activist.
  • Faced legal issues in India for his cartoons critiquing government corruption.
  • Received the Courage in Editorial Cartooning Award from Cartoonists Rights Network International.

Zunar (Zulkiflee Anwar Ulhaque, born 1962, Malaysia)

• • Malaysian political cartoonist known for his bold and critical cartoons targeting the Malaysian government.
  • Faced legal challenges and harassment due to his satirical depictions of political figures in Malaysia.

Gado (Godfrey Mwampembwa, born 1969, Tanzania/Kenya)

• • Tanzanian cartoonist based in Kenya, known for his editorial cartoons.
  • His cartoons often address political and social issues in East Africa and beyond.

Jiang Yefei (born 1973, China)

• • Chinese political cartoonist who gained prominence for his satirical cartoons.
  • His work often touches on issues such as human rights, censorship, and social justice.

Satish Acharya (born 1971, India)

• • Indian cartoonist and illustrator.
  • Known for his editorial cartoons addressing political and social issues in India.
  • His work has been featured in various Indian publications.

Sabah Arar (born 1968, Iraq)

• • Iraqi cartoonist and journalist.
  • Known for his cartoons that address political and social issues in Iraq and the Arab world.
  • Has faced challenges due to his critical views.

Tariq Mehmood (born 1971, Pakistan)

• • Pakistani cartoonist known for his editorial cartoons and illustrations.
  • His work often focuses on political and social issues in Pakistan and the region.

Mangesh Tendulkar (born 1965, India)

• • Indian cartoonist known for his editorial cartoons.
  • His work often comments on political events, social issues, and popular culture in India.

Top 10 Political Cartoonists from India

R.K. Laxman (1921–2015)

• • One of the most iconic Indian cartoonists known for his creation “The Common Man.”
  • Worked for The Times of India and used his cartoons to satirize political and social issues with a focus on the common person’s perspective.

Mario Miranda (1926–2011)

• • Renowned Indian cartoonist known for his humorous and detailed illustrations.
  • His cartoons often depicted everyday life, cultural quirks, and socio-political scenarios in India.

Abu Abraham (1924–2002)

• • Influential Indian cartoonist and a founding member of the Cartoonists and Writers Syndicate International.
  • His editorial cartoons provided insightful commentary on political issues and global events.

R.K. Laxman’s brother, Bal Thackeray (1926–2012)

• • Founder of the Shiv Sena party in Maharashtra, India.
  • Apart from his political career, Thackeray was also a cartoonist and editor known for his editorial cartoons in the party’s publication, “Marmik.”

Sudhir Tailang (1960–2016)

• • Prolific Indian cartoonist who worked for various Indian publications, including Hindustan Times and The Asian Age.
  • His cartoons covered a wide range of political and social issues, earning him numerous awards.

Aseem Trivedi (born 1987)

• • Indian political cartoonist and free speech activist.
  • Faced legal issues in India for his cartoons critiquing government corruption.
  • Received the Courage in Editorial Cartooning Award from Cartoonists Rights Network International.

R. Prasad (born 1962)

• • Indian cartoonist known for his work in leading publications like Mail Today and Outlook.
  • His cartoons often provide commentary on contemporary political events in India.

Manjul (Manjul Sharma)

• • Contemporary Indian cartoonist known for his editorial cartoons.
  • His work appears in various Indian publications, addressing current political and social issues.

E.P. Unny (born 1962)

• • Indian cartoonist and graphic novelist.
  • Works for The Indian Express and is known for his nuanced cartoons that cover a range of issues, from politics to social commentary.

Sankar (1925–2010)

• • Pioneering Indian cartoonist and the founder of the famous Shankar’s Weekly magazine.
  • His editorial cartoons addressed political and social issues during the mid-20th century.

Top 10 Political Cartoonists From Pakistan

Sabir Nazar (born 1954)

• • Pakistani cartoonist known for his work in leading publications, including Dawn and Express Tribune.
  • His cartoons often provide insightful commentary on political events and societal issues in Pakistan.

Feica (Faisal Tehseen)

• • Renowned Pakistani cartoonist and satirist.
  • His work has been featured in publications like Daily Times and The News International.
  • Feica’s cartoons touch on a wide range of political and social themes.

Jamil Naqsh (born 1944)

• • Pakistani cartoonist and caricaturist.
  • Known for his editorial cartoons in various Pakistani publications.
  • His cartoons often address political issues with a humorous touch.

Khalid Hussain (born 1974)

• • Pakistani cartoonist and illustrator.
  • His cartoons, published in The Nation and other newspapers, focus on political events and social issues in Pakistan.

Zahoor (Syed Zahoor Shah Hashmi)

• • Veteran Pakistani cartoonist.
  • Known for his contributions to various newspapers, including Jang and The News.
  • Zahoor’s cartoons cover a spectrum of topics, including politics and social commentary.

Shujaat Ali (born 1975)

• • Pakistani cartoonist and illustrator.
  • His work appears in The Nation, providing satirical commentary on political figures and societal trends.

Fahim Khan (born 1985)

• • Pakistani cartoonist known for his editorial cartoons.
  • His work often addresses political issues and societal challenges in Pakistan.

Saadia Gardezi

• • Pakistani cartoonist and illustrator.
  • Her cartoons, published in various Pakistani newspapers, touch on issues related to women’s rights and social justice.

Nigar Nazar (born 1963)

• • Pakistani cartoonist and founder of the first cartoon newspaper for children, Gogi.
  • Known for her efforts to promote cartooning and literacy among children in Pakistan.

Akhtar Rasool (1932–2011)

• • Pioneering Pakistani cartoonist and former president of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists.
  • His cartoons, published in various newspapers, contributed to the development of political cartooning in Pakistan.

Top 10 Political Cartoonists From Russia

Boris Yefimov (1900–2008)

• • A prominent Soviet and Russian cartoonist and painter.
  • Known for his long career, which included work for the satirical magazine Krokodil and his editorial cartoons on Soviet and international politics.

Andrey Bilzho (born 1939)

• • Russian cartoonist and graphic artist.
  • His cartoons often focus on political satire, providing commentary on Russian and global events.

Mikhail Zlatkovsky (born 1934)

• • Russian illustrator and cartoonist.
  • His work includes editorial cartoons and illustrations for various publications, often featuring political and social commentary.

Valentin Chernykh (1935–2014)

• • Soviet and Russian cartoonist and animator.
  • Contributed to various Soviet and Russian publications and created popular animated characters.
  • Known for his satirical cartoons that touched on political and social issues.

Oleg Dergachov (born 1972)

• • Russian-Canadian cartoonist known for his work that often focuses on political satire.
  • Has contributed cartoons to various international publications.

Sergei Elkin (born 1960)

• • Russian cartoonist and satirist.
  • His cartoons, often published in Novaya Gazeta and other media outlets, provide a humorous take on Russian politics and society.

Andrei Popov (born 1959)

• • Russian cartoonist and illustrator.
  • Known for his editorial cartoons addressing political and social issues.
  • Has worked for various Russian publications.

Sergey Tunin (born 1981)

• • Russian cartoonist and satirist.
  • His cartoons, often published in media outlets like RIA Novosti and Pravda, cover a range of political and social themes.

Igor Smirnov (born 1950)

• • Russian cartoonist and illustrator.
  • His cartoons provide a satirical perspective on Russian and global politics.
  • Has worked for publications such as Krokodil and Novaya Gazeta.

Sergey Yelkin (born 1974)

• • Russian cartoonist and illustrator.
  • His cartoons often focus on political satire and social commentary.
  • Has contributed to various Russian publications.

Top 10 Political Cartoonists From Italy

Altan (Franco Bonvicini, born 1942)

• • An influential Italian cartoonist, satirist, and comic book artist.
  • Co-founder of the popular satirical magazine “Cuore” and creator of the character “Pimpa.”
  • Known for his sharp and often irreverent commentary on Italian politics and society.

Vauro Senesi (born 1952)

• • Italian cartoonist and journalist.
  • Co-founder of the satirical magazine “Il Male” and contributor to various Italian publications.
  • His cartoons often provide a critical perspective on politics and current affairs.

Giorgio Forattini (1940–2007)

• • Italian cartoonist and satirist.
  • Known for his work in various Italian magazines, including Il Giornale and Il Foglio.
  • His caricatures of political figures and celebrities gained widespread recognition.

Giuseppe “Nino” Manfredi (1921–2004)

• • While primarily known as an actor, Manfredi was also a skilled cartoonist and satirist.
  • Contributed cartoons to various Italian magazines and newspapers.
  • His cartoons often reflected his humor and critical views on society.

Giorgio Forattini (born 1940)

• • Italian cartoonist known for his satirical commentary on politics and society.
  • Created the character “Berlusconiano,” representing former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi’s supporters.

Sergio Staino (born 1941)

• • Italian cartoonist, illustrator, and satirist.
  • Worked for various Italian publications, including Linus and Il Fatto Quotidiano.
  • His cartoons often address political and social issues with a humorous touch.

Altan (Francesco Tullio Altan, born 1942)

• • Italian cartoonist and humorist.
  • Co-founder of the satirical magazine “Cuore.”
  • Known for his satirical cartoons that cover a wide range of topics, including politics, culture, and everyday life.

Emilio Giannelli (1926–2019)

• • Italian cartoonist and illustrator.
  • Contributed to magazines such as Il Mago and Linus.
  • Known for his editorial cartoons and illustrations that often provided social commentary.

Marco D’Agostino (born 1966)

• • Italian cartoonist and illustrator.
  • His work often appears in various Italian publications, including L’Unità and Il Fatto Quotidiano.
  • Addresses political and social issues through his cartoons.

Stefano Disegni (born 1968)

• • Italian cartoonist and satirist.
  • Known for his work in Il Fatto Quotidiano and Cuore.
  • His cartoons often provide a humorous take on contemporary political events.

Top 10 Political Cartoonists From Germany

Ernst Kahl (1905–1987)

• • German cartoonist and illustrator.
  • Known for his satirical cartoons and illustrations during the Weimar Republic and Nazi era.
  • Criticized Nazi propaganda through his work.

Vicco von Bülow (Loriot) (1923–2011)

• • Renowned German humorist, cartoonist, and filmmaker.
  • His cartoons, often featuring characters like the “Aunt” and the “Unemployed,” satirized various aspects of German society and culture.

Karl Arnold (1921–2010)

• • German cartoonist and illustrator.
  • His cartoons and illustrations appeared in leading German publications, including Der Spiegel and Stern.
  • Known for his humorous and often critical commentary on politics and society.

Ralph Ruthe (born 1972)

• • German cartoonist, illustrator, and comedian.
  • Creator of the popular webcomic “Shit Happens” and contributor to various German magazines.
  • His cartoons cover a range of topics, including everyday life, politics, and pop culture.

Chlodwig Poth (1921–2015)

• • German cartoonist known for his work in Der Spiegel and other publications.
  • His cartoons provided a satirical take on German and international politics.

Ralf König (born 1960)

• • German comic book artist and cartoonist.
  • Known for his LGBT-themed comics and graphic novels, including “The Killer Condom” and “Maybe… Maybe Not.”
  • His work often combines humor with social and political commentary.

F.W. Bernstein (1938–2018)

• • German poet, cartoonist, and satirist.
  • Co-founder of the satirical magazine “Pardon.”
  • His cartoons and satirical poems often focused on politics, culture, and everyday life.

Gerhard Haderer (born 1951)

• • Austrian-German cartoonist.
  • His satirical cartoons have been published in various German-language publications, including Stern and Profil.
  • Haderer’s work often addresses political and social issues with a sharp and humorous edge.

Renate Alf (born 1940)

• • German cartoonist and illustrator.
  • Known for her work in Der Spiegel and other publications.
  • Her cartoons often provide humorous commentary on social and political issues.

Walter Trier (1890–1951)

• • German-Canadian cartoonist and illustrator.
  • Known for his work in children’s literature and for creating the character “Erich Ohser,” which he used during the Nazi era to subtly criticize the regime.

Who was the First Political Cartoonist?

The first newspaper cartoonist is said to be Benjamin Franklin. He drew a picture in 1754 for a newspaper he owned called the Pennsylvania Gazette. The picture showed a snake cut into eight parts, each representing a different American colony. It was a way for Franklin to say that the colonies should unite.

This drawing, titled “Join, or Die,” is considered one of the earliest political cartoons in a newspaper. Benjamin Franklin’s use of pictures to share a political message was a big deal and made him a pioneer in the world of newspaper cartoons.

Which newspaper first started publishing daily cartoons?

The first newspaper to regularly publish a daily cartoon was “Puck,” a humor magazine in the United States. “Puck” was founded by Joseph Keppler and first published on March 14, 1871. It gained popularity for its satirical cartoons, which were a mix of social and political commentary presented in a humorous manner.

“Puck” featured daily cartoons, making it one of the early pioneers in incorporating cartoons as a regular feature in a publication. The cartoons in “Puck” covered a wide range of topics, and the magazine played a significant role in shaping political and social discourse through the medium of humor and satire.

FAQs about Political Cartoons

1. How do political cartoonists convey their messages?

Political cartoonists use visual elements such as caricature, symbolism, and humor to communicate their opinions. They may exaggerate physical features of individuals, incorporate symbols, or create scenarios that reflect their views on political or social issues.

2. What is the purpose of political cartoons?

The primary purpose of political cartoons is to provide commentary and provoke thought on current events and political issues. They often aim to entertain, inform, and offer a critical perspective on societal matters, using humor as a powerful tool for communication.

3. How are political cartoons created?

Political cartoons are created by cartoonists who sketch, draw, or digitally illustrate their ideas. They start with a concept or message they want to convey and use artistic techniques to bring their vision to life. The cartoons are then published in newspapers, magazines, or online platforms.

4. Do political cartoons only focus on politics?

While political cartoons often center around political topics, they may also address broader societal issues, cultural trends, or significant global events. Cartoonists use their creativity to comment on a wide range of subjects, adding humor and satire to their commentary.

5. How can I interpret a political cartoon?

Interpreting a political cartoon involves analyzing its visual elements, symbols, and the overall message. Consider the context of current events, identify the caricatures or symbols used, and understand the artist’s perspective to grasp the intended meaning.

6. Are political cartoons always humorous?

While humor is a common element in political cartoons, not all cartoons are funny. Some may use irony, sarcasm, or wit to convey a more serious or critical message. The key is to engage the audience and prompt reflection on the depicted subject.

7. Can political cartoons influence public opinion?

Yes, political cartoons have the potential to influence public opinion by offering a unique and often memorable perspective on current events. The combination of visuals and humor can make complex issues more accessible to a broad audience, shaping perceptions and sparking discussions.

8. Do all newspapers or online news sites publish daily cartoons?

No, not all newspapers or online news sites publish daily cartoons. The inclusion of daily cartoons is a decision made by the editorial team based on the publication’s style, focus, and audience. Some news outlets regularly feature editorial cartoons as part of their content, while others may prioritize other forms of commentary or not include cartoons at all.