A Guide to Primary Resources for U.S. History : Cartoon on Panic of 1837 HarpWeek This satirical political cartoon from Harper's Weekly blames Martin van Buren (Jackson's successor) for the Panic of 1837. The Specie Circular was a controversial issue, and critics used cartoons to poke fun at what they saw to be the cause of the nation's economic woes. Have students describe the scene portrayed in the cartoon answering who, what, when, when, where, and why? Also ask them to list questions that they have about the cartoon then get into groups to discuss the cartoon including ways in which the cartoon serves as propaganda of the time. Show other cartoons on the topics of Andrew Jackson and Tammany Hall to give more depictions of the figures of the time. Then create a chart with showing the different aspects of the national economy of the time and who supported what by region and political party. Divide the class into four groups assigning each group one of four characters represented in the cartoon: Planter, Tammany Irishman, Jackson, and Van Buren. Have a political debate with each side getting to explain what they stand for in the way of economics and banking then letting the other groups comment on the others' stances. Have students design their own political cartoon regarding another aspect of the Jacksonian Era such as the trail of tears or other banking scandal.

Cartoon on Panic of 1837
HarpWeek: American Political Prints 1766-1876

Description: This satirical political cartoon from Harper's Weekly blames Martin van Buren (Jackson's successor) for the Panic of 1837. The Specie Circular was a controversial issue, and critics used cartoons to poke fun at what they saw to be the cause of the nation's economic woes.

Teaching Tips:

"Do Now" Suggestions

Have students describe the scene portrayed in the cartoon answering who, what, when, when, where, and why? Also ask them to list questions that they have about the cartoon then get into groups to discuss the cartoon including ways in which the cartoon serves as propaganda of the time.
Show other cartoons on the topics of Andrew Jackson and Tammany Hall to give more depictions of the figures of the time. Then create a chart with showing the different aspects of the national economy of the time and who supported what by region and political party.

Suggestions for Using this Resource as Part of a Lesson

Divide the class into four groups assigning each group one of four characters represented in the cartoon: Planter, Tammany Irishman, Jackson, and Van Buren. Have a political debate with each side getting to explain what they stand for in the way of economics and banking then letting the other groups comment on the others' stances.
Have students design their own political cartoon regarding another aspect of the Jacksonian Era such as the trail of tears or other banking scandal.