View source for Cartoon

A '''cartoon''' is a form of visual art that employs illustrations to convey messages, often through humor, [[satire]], or [[caricature]]. Cartoons can be standalone images or part of a series, such as comic strips or animated sequences, and are prevalent in various media, including newspapers, magazines, television, and digital platforms.
[[File:Berlei Cartoon by Tom Glover.jpg|alt=Berlei Cartoon by Tom Glover|thumb|A cartoon about women who were measured for Berlei, Ltd.'s anthropometrical survey fell Into one of four types--"b!g hips." big abdomens," "short below the waist," and "sway backs."]]

== '''Etymology and Evolution''' ==
The term "cartoon" originates from the Italian word ''cartone'', meaning "large paper," which referred to full-scale preparatory drawings for artworks like frescoes, tapestries, or mosaics. Over time, the meaning evolved to denote humorous or satirical illustrations in print media.<ref>https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cartoon</ref> 

=== '''Historical Development''' ===

* '''Early Beginnings''': The use of illustrations for storytelling dates back to ancient civilizations, with early examples found in Egyptian hieroglyphs and Roman murals.
* '''17th to 18th Century''': The modern concept of cartoons began to take shape with caricatures and satirical drawings that commented on social and political issues.
* '''19th Century''': The term "cartoon" was popularized in the early 1840s to describe humorous illustrations in magazines and newspapers.<ref>https://www.britannica.com/art/cartoon-pictorial-parody</ref> 
* '''20th Century''': The advent of animation brought cartoons to the screen, leading to the creation of iconic characters and series that became integral to popular culture.

=== '''Types of Cartoons''' ===

* '''[[Editorial Cartoon|Editorial Cartoons]]''': These are illustrations that provide commentary on political or social issues, often found in newspapers and magazines.
* '''[[Comic Strip|Comic Strips]]''': A series of drawings that tell a story, typically humorous, and published in newspapers or online platforms.
* '''[[Animated Cartoon|Animated Cartoons]]''': Motion pictures that use a sequence of illustrations to create the illusion of movement, commonly seen in television shows and films.

=== '''Notable Cartoonists''' ===

* '''[[Honoré Daumier]]''': A 19th-century French artist known for his satirical lithographs critiquing society and politics.
* '''[[Charles Schulz]]''': Creator of the beloved "[[Peanuts]]" [[comic strip]], featuring characters like [[Charlie Brown]] and [[Snoopy]].
* '''[[Walt Disney]]''': Pioneer of animated cartoons, co-founder of The Walt Disney Company, and creator of iconic characters such as Mickey Mouse.

=== '''Cultural Impact''' ===
Cartoons have played a significant role in shaping public opinion and reflecting societal values. Through satire and humor, they have the power to highlight social issues, challenge authority, and provide commentary on current events. Animated cartoons, in particular, have become a staple of entertainment, influencing generations and contributing to the global cultural landscape.

=== '''Modern Developments''' ===
With the rise of digital media, cartoons have expanded into new formats, including webcomics, digital animation, and interactive media. This evolution has allowed for greater creative expression and accessibility, enabling cartoonists to reach a global audience through various online platforms.

From their origins as preparatory sketches to their current presence in digital media, cartoons have continually evolved, adapting to technological advancements and societal changes. They remain a powerful medium for expression, combining art and narrative to engage, entertain, and inform audiences worldwide.

== Reference ==
<references />