John Tinney McCutcheon (political cartoonist)
John Tinney McCutcheon (1870-1949) was an American political cartoonist, illustrator, and journalist, renowned for his impactful and insightful cartoons. Born in South Raub, Tippecanoe County, Indiana, McCutcheon grew up in a time of significant social and political change, which greatly influenced his work.
He graduated from Purdue University in 1889 and began his career at the Chicago Morning News (later the Chicago Record), quickly gaining recognition for his artistic talent. In 1903, he joined the Chicago Tribune, where he worked for most of his career.
McCutcheon's cartoons covered a wide range of topics, from everyday life to significant political and social issues of his time, like World War I and the Great Depression. His work was celebrated for its humor, simplicity, and ability to capture the essence of complex issues.
In 1932, he won the Pulitzer Prize for his cartoon, "A Wise Economist Asks a Question," which effectively commented on the economic struggles of the era. Beyond his cartoon work, McCutcheon was also a talented writer and illustrator, publishing several books and travelogues.
He was not just a cartoonist but a keen observer of human nature and a storyteller at heart, using his pen to comment on the world's happenings with wit and wisdom. His legacy remains significant in the world of journalism and political cartooning.