Frank Leslie Collection
Frank Leslie, a prominent figure in the world of journalism and illustration during the late 19th century, left an indelible mark on American history
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Frank Leslie, a prominent figure in the world of journalism and illustration during the late 19th century, left an indelible mark on American history. Born in England, Leslie immigrated to the United States and quickly established himself as a talented artist and publisher. One of his notable works was an engraving depicting Charles Dickens, capturing the essence of the beloved author who had recently passed away. This piece served as a tribute to Dickens' literary contributions and showcased Leslie's ability to capture emotion through art. Leslie's artistic prowess extended beyond portraits; he also created engravings that depicted significant events of his time. One such engraving portrayed children writing letters to Santa Claus, reflecting the innocence and faith associated with childhood Christmases. In addition to his illustrations, Leslie covered important news stories through his publication. He documented Hiram Revels, an influential African-American politician during Reconstruction era America. Through this lithographic print, Leslie shed light on Revels' achievements and highlighted issues surrounding racial equality. Leslie's dedication to reporting led him to cover various topics including technological advancements like the Corliss Centennial Engine Rotative Beam Engine which revolutionized industry at that time. He also reported on public health concerns such as suspected cholera carriers and their impact on communities. Notably, Leslie advocated for animal rights by exposing instances of cruelty towards animals through powerful illustrations showing men beating defenseless creatures. His work raised awareness about animal welfare during a time when such issues were often overlooked. Tragedy struck when President Garfield was assassinated in Washington D. C. , but it was Frank Leslie who captured this historic event through vivid imagery that conveyed both shock and sorrow felt across the nation. The Centennial Exposition held in Philadelphia in 1876 marked another milestone covered by Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper. The exposition celebrated America's progress over its first century while showcasing innovative inventions from around the world.