American Legacy 

The illustrations and engravings of Thomas Nast shaped holiday customs and politics in America. He established images and customs that Americans consider traditional. His cartoons and illustrations highlighted the politics and government of the Industrial Revolution. Despite his illiteracy, Thomas Nast became a strong influence in American society.

Born in 1840 in Germany, Thomas Nast immigrated to the United States as a child. Unable to speak English, he found it difficult to succeed in school. Using crayons, Nast spent hours drawing. At age 12, his parents enrolled him in art school. After a few years, he quit due to financial reasons. Confident in his abilities, Nast sought employment in New York.

During the American Civil War, Nast covered the war as an illustrator. Working for Harper's Weekly, he illustrated battles and military scenes. Nast's cartoons highlighted major national events and issues, the political process, and government scandals. He created American symbols, including Columbia, the Republican elephant and Democratic donkey, and Uncle Sam.

Nast's illustrations marked the first appearance of the Santa Claus we know. His inspiration came from Clement Moore's poem, A Visit from St. Nicholas. His art first depicted Santa's North Pole home, workshop and elves, children's letters to Santa, and the idea that only good children received gifts.

Undeterred by his disadvantages or circumstances, Nast gained inspiration for his art from having science, history, and literature read to him. The works of Thomas Nast left an enduring American legacy.









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