Guided Primary Source Analysis: Abolition Frowned Down

Abolition frowned down
Robinson, H.R. “Abolition frowned down.” 1839. American cartoon print filing series (Library of Congress).

Access a larger image of this political cartoon. Do you think this cartoon supports or opposes abolition? Explain your reasoning, pointing to specific details in the source that support your view.

Now review the bibliographic record and closely read the summary. Do you think this cartoon supports or opposes abolition? Explain your reasoning, pointing to specific details in the source record that support your view.

The bibliographic record states that the drawing style and handling of the figures strongly suggest that this cartoon was drawn by the artist as the anonymous “Called to Account” and “Symptoms of a Duel” (nos. 1839-10 and -11). Click the links to review the cartoon and discuss why you agree or disagree that all three were drawn by Henry Dacre. Be sure to use specific details from the sources to support your conclusion.

What other observations, reflections or questions does this source inspire? Let us know!