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Cartoon, The Disappointed Undertakers (Liberal Party)
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Cartoon, The Disappointed Undertakers (Liberal Party)
Cartoon, The Disappointed Undertakers -- a satirical comment on the rivaly between the Liberal Party (represented by Lord John Russell, John Bright and William Gladstone), and the Conservative Party (Benjamin Disraeli). Disraeli is clearly staying where he is, at the Treasury (at least for the time being). Date: 1868
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Media ID 23361512
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1868 Analogy Bright Burial Comment Disappointed Gladstone Liberal Mourning Politicians Russell Satire Satirical Undertakers 1860s
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The Disappointed Undertakers: A Satirical Comment on the Rivalry between the Liberal and Conservative Parties in Victorian Britain (1868) This satirical cartoon, titled "The Disappointed Undertakers," offers a witty and insightful commentary on the intense political rivalry between the Liberal and Conservative Parties in Victorian Britain during the late 1860s. The cartoon, published in 1868, depicts a group of mournfully dressed Liberal politicians, including Lord John Russell, John Bright, and William Gladstone, standing dejectedly before a coffin labeled "Liberal Government." The coffin lies open, revealing a healthy and vibrant Benjamin Disraeli, who remains seated comfortably at the Treasury, smirking and seemingly unfazed by the mourners. The analogy of death and burial is a common one in political cartoons of the time, used to highlight the perceived failure or demise of a political party or leader. In this case, the Liberals are depicted as disappointed undertakers, mourning the loss of their political power and influence, while Disraeli, as the Conservative Party leader, remains in control and unperturbed. The cartoon reflects the intense political competition between the two parties during this period. The Liberal Party, led by Gladstone, had recently come to power in 1868 after a general election, but their tenure was short-lived, as they were replaced by the Conservatives just a few months later. Disraeli, who had been out of power since 1866, was able to capitalize on the Liberals' missteps and regain control of the government. The Disappointed Undertakers serves as a fascinating glimpse into the political landscape of Victorian Britain and the ways in which satire was used to comment on and critique the actions and motivations of politicians. Despite its age, the cartoon remains relevant today, offering insight into the enduring nature of political rivalries and the power of satire to challenge and provoke.
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