"Survival of The Fittest" Cartoon
Artifact IDMO 2024.1.38.46
Object Type
Editorial Cartoon
Date
1962
Artist
Ferman Martin
(Cartoonist for the Houston Chronicle, American, 1899-1977)
Publisher
The Houston Chronicle
(American Newspaper)
Medium
Charcoal, pencil, ink on paper
DimensionsOverall H 16 1/4 in x W 14 in (41.3 cm x 35.6 cm )
Physical DescriptionOriginal cartoon drawing. Billboard with the smiling face of JFK and slogan "with Great Vigah" Physical Fitness Program. "Vigah" refers to vigor pronouced with JFK's Boston accent. A leg with a "barking dog" for a foot in the foreground is in reference to President Kennedy's public challenge to complete a 50 mile hike.
Historical NoteThe Presidential Physical Fitness Program, established by President John F. Kennedy in 1961, aimed to promote physical health and fitness among American youth. It encouraged active lifestyles in children and adolescents. It's goal was to improve physical fitness levels across the nation while fostering a sense of national pride and well-being.
Kennedy launched a national publicity campaign on physical fitness challenging the public to complete a 50-mile hike. The campaign was organized and countrywide. Material was produced for print, radio, television, and display advertising. The physical fitness theme even appeared in the comics page, as seventeen major syndicated cartoonists took up the subject, including Charles Schulz of "Peanuts" fame.
Additional DetailsKennedy launched a national publicity campaign on physical fitness challenging the public to complete a 50-mile hike. The campaign was organized and countrywide. Material was produced for print, radio, television, and display advertising. The physical fitness theme even appeared in the comics page, as seventeen major syndicated cartoonists took up the subject, including Charles Schulz of "Peanuts" fame.
Custodial History NoteItem was donated to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum by the Estate of President John F. Kennedy in 1965
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesKennedy Administration Collection 1960-1963 (National Archives Identifier 1676959)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - FullyUse Restriction Note© The Houston Cronicle
Use of this image is restricted. Copyright or other proprietary rights are held by individuals or entities other than the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum does not warrant that the use of these materials will notinfringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply.It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.In Collection(s)
Not on view
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