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The laying of the cable: John and Jonathan joining hands, 1858
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The laying of the cable: John and Jonathan joining hands, 1858
The laying of the cable: John and Jonathan joining hands, 1858. A crude but engaging picture, celebrating the goodwill between Great Britain and the United States generated by the successful completion of the Atlantic telegraph cable between Newfoundland and Valentia Bay (Ireland). Laid by the American steamer " Niagara" and British steamer " Agamemnon" (which appear in the background of the print), the cable transmitted its first message on August 17, 1858. The artist shows Brother Jonathan (left) shaking hands with John Bull. The two figures stand on opposite shores, set against a stormy, lightning-streaked sky over a choppy sea. " Brother Jonathan: " Glad to grasp your hand, uncle John! I almost feel like calling you Father, and will if you improve upon acquaintance! May the feeling of Friendship... be like the electric current which now unites our lands, and links our destiny with yours! May our hearts always beat together; and with one pulse--one Purpose, of Peace and Good-Will, we yet shall see ALL NATIONS speaking our Language, blessed with our Liberty, and led by that spirit of Love and Justice which leads to the only true happiness and Glory of Nations!" John Bull: " Happy to see and greet you, Jonathan! You feel like bone of my bone and flesh of my flesh! You have grown to be a tall and sturdy man--quite as big as your Father! Great times these, my boy! We won t think of quarreling any more. I have grown too wise for that; and I hope we will both agree to let by-gones be by-gones! Henceforth we treat each other as equals, and only strive which shall do most in making all the world and the rest of Mankind (as one of your good old Presidents once said) realize How good and pleasant a thing it is for brethren to dwell together in unity. "
Liszt Collection of nineteenth-century engravings and images to browse and enjoy
Media ID 12868967
© Quint Lox Limited
1858 Agamemnon Atlantic August Background Britain Brother Cable Celebrating Current Electric Father Friendship Great Hand Hands Ireland John John Bull Joining Jonathan Laying Message Nation Newfoundland Niagara Picture Shaking Shores States Steamer Stormy Telegraph Uncle United Acquaintance Choppy Destiny Engaging Glad Goodwill Grasp Transmitted
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print titled "The laying of the cable: John and Jonathan joining hands, 1858" depicts a significant moment in history that symbolizes the goodwill between Great Britain and the United States. The artwork celebrates the successful completion of the Atlantic telegraph cable, connecting Newfoundland and Valentia Bay (Ireland). In this crude yet engaging picture, we see Brother Jonathan on the left side shaking hands with John Bull on opposite shores. Set against a stormy sky with lightning streaks illuminating a choppy sea, this image captures both the challenges faced during this monumental project and the unity it brought forth. The American steamer "Niagara" and British steamer "Agamemnon" can be seen in the background, representing their joint efforts in laying down this groundbreaking communication link. Brother Jonathan expresses his joy at grasping John Bull's hand, even considering him as a father figure if their acquaintance improves. He hopes for everlasting friendship between their nations, envisioning all nations speaking their language and sharing in liberty and justice. John Bull reciprocates these sentiments warmly, recognizing Brother Jonathan as kin. He acknowledges that they have grown wise enough to let go of past quarrels and treat each other as equals. Together, they strive to promote unity among all brethren worldwide. This powerful image encapsulates not only an important historical event but also serves as a reminder of how cooperation can bridge divides and foster peace among nations.
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