"U.S. - Moscow Hotline" Cartoon
Artifact IDMO 2024.1.38.59
Object Type
Editorial Cartoon
Date
1963
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 black and white cartoon drawing. Two figures, U.S. and Soviet leaders John F. Kennedy and Nikita Khrushchev heads are mounted on poles, resembling puppets. They are shouting at each other, with aggressive expressions, and their speech bubbles overlap. Dialogue JFK "Call Me Before You Start Anything" Khruschev "Oh Yeah?". Between them is a flimsy communication line labeled "US Moscow Hot Line" which appears ineffective.
Historical NoteThis political cartoon refers to the Cold War tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union, particulary the U.S. - Moscow Hotline, a direct communication link established in 1963 after the Cuban Missile Crisis to prevent nuclear war due to miscommunication. The exaggerated puppet like figures of the leaders suggests they are controlled by their circumstances rather than decision making. An escalation of conflict is depicted in the overlapping speech bubbles. The hotline, instead of serving as a stabilizing force, indicates skepticism about it preventing misunderstandings leading to war.
The cartoon reflects Cold War anxieties and critiques the reality of diplomatic efforts.
Additional DetailsThe cartoon reflects Cold War anxieties and critiques the reality of diplomatic efforts.
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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