Today in History: Join or Die

Today in History–May 9–the Library of Congress features the first political cartoon published in the United States  on this day in 1754. The “Join or Die” cartoon, purportedly devised by Benjamin Franklin, provided commentary on the need for the colonies to join together against French and Native American aggression along the western frontier. Learn more by visiting the Today in History section and clicking the resources below.

Join or Die political cartoon woodcut

Masthead and part of front page of The Massachusetts Spy, containing repurposed Join or Die snake in the masthead 1774 July 7

Political Cartoons and Public Debates primary source set includes Join or Die cartoon and teacher guide

Related resources

• Today in History: Benjamin Franklin
• Today in History: Fort Necessity & the French and Indian War
• Analyzing Primary Sources: Learning from Political Cartoons
• Analyzing Primary Sources: Reading Cartoons