Political Cartoon Analysis Activity: American Isolationism Post-WWI

This American Isolationism political cartoon analysis activity examines the viewpoint of Post-WWI isolationists. Students will examine a political cartoon from 1919 that illustrates the international dangers isolationists believed the United States was facing in the years following World War I. Through answering a series of Level 1, 2 and 3 questions, students will analyze the symbolism and meaning of the political cartoon. This activity is designed to accompany lessons on American Isolationism, as students are asked to relate the cartoon to what they have learned about isolationism.

The ability to analyze political cartoons and other primary sources is an invaluable skill for students. These sheets are a fantastic way to help your students begin to understand how to analyze political cartoons. After a bit of practice, analyzing political cartoons and other primary sources will become second-nature for them!

I have found these primary source analysis activities to be extremely valuable in helping to prepare my students for the state End of Course (EOC) Exam— a.k.a. the “Political Cartoon Test.” I really hope you find these useful, as well!

These analysis sheets include Level 1, 2, and 3 questions.

There are three versions of the Analysis Sheet included for your convenience.

• One-Page Version: This is a one-page version of the analysis sheet. Perfect for interactive notebooks!

• Long Version: Two-page version with additional questions.

• Class Set Version: Have a strict copying limit policy at your school? No worries! This version has the cartoon and all the questions from the long version on the same page. Perfect for making a class set that you can use with all your classes!

• Answer Keys: Answer keys with suggested answers.

You also might be interested in the other Political Cartoon Activities I have available:

Political Cartoon Analysis Activity: The Roosevelt CorollaryPolitical Cartoon Analysis Activity: Standard OilPolitical Cartoon Analysis Activity: Taft & RooseveltPolitical Cartoon Analysis Activity: The Open Door Policy in ChinaPolitical Cartoon Analysis Activity: The Anaconda PlanPolitical Cartoon Analysis Activity: The US & the League of NationsPolitical Cartoon Analysis Activity: The Chinese Exclusion Act

Thank you so much for checking out my resources!