Satirical print entitled ‘Bunkers Hill or America’s head dress’ by Mary and Matthias Darly, Published: 39 Strand, London, 19 April 1776. Credit: Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division, Washington, D.C.
The American Revolutionary War received much coverage, both in the colonies and the Mother Country. Many political satires were produced commenting on the futility of the war and the poor British effort. This source is one example of the political commentary that the British administration faced throughout the war effort.
Image description
Image shows a half-length portrait of a woman, right profile, with exaggerated coiffure supporting three redoubts [fortresses] and flags. The infantry and artillery firing are firing at close range, tents, an artillery train, and a sea battle involving two or three ships; large flags flying over the redoubts are decorated with a monkey, two women with arrows, and a goose.
- What does the cartoon reveal about British attitudes towards the war in America?
- What visual techniques are used in the cartoon to communicate these ideas?
- What does the source infer about the role of women in political commentary or as subjects of political satire during the eighteenth-century?
- What does this cartoon reveal about cultural life during the reign of George III?