Ivan Glassco – mackaycartoons

The Quiet Before the Storm

February 22, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Politics, Hockey, and Trump
Saturday February 22, 2025 | Newsletter 17

Yet another week that’s has been a whirlwind of events, weaving together unique threads of provincial, national, and global themes, all underscored by the disruptive presence of Donald Trump lingering in the shadows. From the silence of local candidates in Ontario to the fierce political rivalry in Canada and Trump’s controversial statements on the global stage, the editorial cartoons created this week reflect a growing concern for genuine representation and accountability. The central theme is clear and repetitive to all of my posts in recent weeks: we need to demand more from our leaders and ensure they engage authentically with the public.

The Hamilton Spectator – November 30, 1934

It was a short work week due to the holiday on Monday, so I’ll begin this review not with one of my own editorial cartoons, but with a classic drawn long ago by Hamilton Spectator editorial cartoonist Ivan Glassco. He was a vocal critic of unqualified and ineffective local political candidates, and his sentiments resonate strongly in the current Ontario provincial election campaign.

This election cycle appears to be lacking the typical efforts from candidates to engage with voters—gone are the days of knocking on doors and delivering policy pledges through leaflets. Engagement should also include meeting with journalists and answering their questions. Calling an election during a particularly snowy winter is a convenient tactic by the governing party, ensuring low turnout.

Monday night featured one of two leaders’ debates, which can best be described as a cacophony of sound bites, with four candidates talking over one another while avoiding the pressing issues of the day. Frankly, these debates aren’t worth tuning into for a full 90 minutes. In the past, I found local debates informative in helping me decide whose name to mark with an X, but even those opportunities seem scarce, often lacking attendance from key candidates.

Running for public office should be viewed as an act of courage. However, if candidates merely put their names forward without addressing the who, what, how, and why behind their campaigns, then what’s the point? As Glassco suggests in his timeless cartoon, it’s time to sweep away the useless candidates.

Wednesday, February 19, 2025: The Silence of Candidates

In Ontario, the Progressive Conservative party’s strategy of tightly controlling candidates’ public appearances and media interactions is causing concern. The absence of local candidates from all-candidates debates leaves voters wondering if their representatives are truly equipped to advocate for their interests. The lack of engagement paints a picture of a nearly invisible campaign, depriving voters of meaningful political discourse.

Cartoon Summary: Doug Ford’s confident statement about Canadian independence is juxtaposed with the empty podiums at local debates, highlighting the irony of his words against the backdrop of disengagement. The making-of video: The Training of Parliamentary Trained Seals

Thursday, February 20, 2025: The Rise of Mark Carney

As Pierre Poilievre’s dominance in Ottawa appears to be faltering, the emergence of Mark Carney as a formidable contender promises a significant showdown in Canadian politics. Carney’s impressive credentials challenge Poilievre’s reliance on sharp critiques of Trudeau, reflecting a shift towards leadership that embodies integrity and competence.

Cartoon Summary: The rivalry between Poilievre and Carney, underscoring the contrast between political antics and substantive credentials. The making-of video: Poilievre mob goes after Trump

Friday, February 21, 2025: Putin’s Circus

Former President Donald Trump’s remarks about Ukraine’s conflict with Russia exemplify a troubling departure from democratic values and factual accuracy. His attempt to recast Ukraine as the aggressor undermines the unity of Western nations, highlighting the need for a robust response from global leaders committed to truth and resisting divisive revisionism.

Cartoon Summary: Trump and Musk as circus performers, amusingly juxtaposed with global dictators, capturing the farcical nature of current political discourse while emphasizing the seriousness of the underlying issues. The making-of video: Donald Trump’s Circus Act

Saturday, February 22, 2025: A Hockey Victory for Canada

Finally something to cheer about! Canada’s recent victory over the USA in the 4 Nations Face-Off final serves as a powerful symbol of national pride amidst political tensions with Trump. As the American King’s rhetoric raises concerns about Canada’s sovereignty, the hockey win becomes a rallying point for unity and resilience, reminding Canadians of their shared values and commitment to independence.

Cartoon Summary: A metaphorical ice rink scene features a determined player in a “Never 51” jersey, challenging Trump, Elon Musk and Putin, highlighting Canada’s defiance against external pressures. The making-of video: Never 51, vs. the Trump Clown Cart

* * *

This week’s events have highlighted the pressing need for political engagement and accountability from our leaders, both at the provincial and national levels. The shadow of Donald Trump looms large, complicating matters further with his ongoing interference in international affairs, which threatens the stability and sovereignty of nations. As we look ahead, it is imperative that our political discourse prioritizes transparent, authentic, and principled leadership that upholds democratic values.

Next week, a storm is brewing. On February 27, Ontario voters will express their sentiments regarding Doug Ford’s Trump tariff election and determine whether he deserves the strong mandate he is seeking. As we enter March, Canadians will discover how Trump’s sword of Damocles will affect the tariffs hanging over us. Finally, on March 9, we will learn who the Liberals believe should be Canada’s next Prime Minister. The weeks ahead promise to be pivotal, and it is crucial that we remain vigilant and engaged.

Thank you to everyone who continues to subscribe to this weekly newsletter! I typically release posts every Saturday morning, offering a summary of the week through my editorial cartoons. My aim is to keep you informed without overwhelming you with constant notifications. Throughout the week, I also share daily ‘notes’ on my Substack, which enrich my weekly newsletters and feature animated versions of my daily cartoons.

Substack is an invaluable platform for me, especially given the uncertainties that come with being a staff editorial cartoonist. While I remain optimistic about my future, I am acutely aware of the unfortunate layoffs and newspaper closures that have impacted many talented colleagues in our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will always be free. Thank you for your continued support!

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Sunday November 3, 2024

November 3, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Rediscovering Ivan Glassco: The Unearthed Legacy of a Canadian Cartoonist

This was also posted as an entry experiment to the platform Substack

Editorial cartoonists are society’s ‘canaries in the coal mine’ – The Hamilton Spectator, Saturday November 2, 2024

When I embarked on my deep dive into the work of Ivan Russell Glassco, the legendary editorial cartoonist for The Hamilton Spectator, I knew I was in for a journey rich with discovery. What I didn’t anticipate was how this project would redefine not just my appreciation of Glassco’s art but my understanding of historical journalism itself. This exploration was made possible by the recent, game-changing digitization of The Hamilton Spectator archives. No longer confined to the labourious task of threading scratchy microfilm through bulky readers, researchers like myself now have the luxury of scrolling through pages from nearly a century ago with the swipe of a finger, courtesy of newspapers.com.

Ivan Glassco

Before this digitization effort, accessing anything prior to the early 2000s meant dusting off reels of microfilm, a process that was daunting at best. The flicker and hum of the machine, whether the repetitive hand-crank, or faulty electric spinners, and the inevitable eye strain were the hallmarks of archival research. But today, the stories and illustrations that once required hours to locate can be called up almost instantly, and for Glassco’s admirers, this is a treasure trove offers potential for research.

Self-Defence

I’ve spent months meticulously scouring these digital archives, capturing screenshots of every Ivan Glassco editorial cartoon. Each one, often marred by the imperfections of its original medium—blotches, scratches, and the texture of aged newsprint—needed careful tending. Using a combination of image-editing tools, I cleaned up each scan, breathing new life into Glassco’s bold, striking lines and ensuring his sharp wit and evocative symbolism stood as vividly as they once did on the printed page.

To make this collection functional for future studies, I’ve also added comprehensive metadata to each image: the date of publication, the context surrounding the cartoon, and thematic tags. This meticulous cataloging not only enriches my own research but opens up new possibilities for those who want to delve into Glassco’s era and impact without starting from scratch.

Race Hatred

The 1930s were a decade of seismic change, punctuated by economic upheaval and the brewing shadows of global conflict. Glassco’s work chronicled this uneasy time with unmatched incisiveness. Each cartoon wasn’t just an illustration—it was a commentary that captured the heartbeat of a society grappling with uncertainty. His portrayal of political figures, economic woes, and public sentiment was laced with humour, empathy, and a clarity that resonated beyond the news cycle. These pieces, sometimes funny and at other times searingly somber, form a rich tableau of Canadian and world history as seen through Glassco’s eyes.

Adolf Hitler & Josef Stalin

What isn’t always clear from the articles written about him is the versatility he brought to his work. His cartoons balanced the fine line between critique and entertainment; he managed to provoke thought without alienating his audience. There’s a palpable sincerity in his lines—whether sketching Roosevelt navigating the treacherous waters of the Great Depression or caricaturing local political disputes—that highlights a deep understanding of the human condition.

“War Monger”

These digital restorations could form the basis of an exhibition, pairing each cartoon with the stories that surrounded them, or become part of an interactive online archive where educators and historians can draw connections between Glassco’s work and modern political cartoons. Perhaps a thematic compendium, highlighting how certain motifs evolved over his career, or even a classroom resource for illustrating the art of political commentary.

But for now, the work remains personal. It’s an act of homage to an artist who, despite gaining acclaim in his day, didn’t live long enough to see the full extent of his influence. Each restored image is a reminder of Glassco’s ability to cut to the heart of an issue with only pen and paper. And each, too, underscores what was lost with his untimely death—a voice that, had history allowed, would have continued to shape public thought and dialogue through the fraught years of World War II and beyond.

My study of Ivan Glassco’s oeuvre, conducted one frame at a time, is a testament not just to his talent but to the importance of preserving and revisiting the voices of the past. His cartoons may have been born of the 1930s, but their resonance is timeless, calling out to be re-seen, re-understood, and celebrated anew.

The Hamilton Spectator – 26 January, 1950

Friday April 5, 2024

April 5, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday April 5, 2024

The Eclipsing of Democracy: A Celestial and Political Paradox

Ivan Glassco, The Hamilton Spectator

In 1936, Ivan Glassco’s editorial cartoon for the Hamilton Spectator captured a moment of political symbolism: Adolf Hitler, emerging as a dominant force on the world stage, eclipsed Benito Mussolini, representing the ascendancy of authoritarianism over the fading embers of democracy. This visual metaphor, though born in a specific era, carries timeless resonance, echoing the recurrent pattern of strongmen casting their shadow over democratic institutions throughout history.

As we anticipate the forthcoming solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, Glassco’s imagery takes on a renewed poignancy. Just as the moon intermittently obscures the brilliance of the sun, so too have authoritarian rulers intermittently obstructed the light of democracy. The cosmic phenomenon of an eclipse serves as a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of power dynamics and the transient nature of political dominance.

Poll: Democracy in North America: Significant segments in Canada, U.S. open to authoritarian leadership

March 7, 2024

Consider the accounts of Herodotus, the ancient Greek historian, who chronicled the extraordinary events of 585 BC when a solar eclipse intervened to halt the relentless conflict between the Medes and the Lydians. In the face of the celestial spectacle, warring factions laid down their arms, seized by a shared sense of awe and reverence. Though separated by millennia, the psychological impact of witnessing such cosmic phenomena remains a unifying force, evoking humility and fostering a sense of interconnectedness among humanity.

Recent studies corroborate this notion, suggesting that the experience of witnessing a total solar eclipse can evoke a profound sense of awe, prompting individuals to feel more deeply connected to their communities and to each other. This transient moment of collective wonder stands in stark contrast to the divisive forces that often fracture societies along political lines.

Yet, as we marvel at the celestial ballet unfolding above us, we cannot afford to overlook the troubling parallels evident in our political landscape. The rise of authoritarianism, not only in distant lands but also within the heartlands of North America, poses a grave threat to the principles of democracy. In both Canada and the United States, significant segments of the population express openness to authoritarian leadership, viewing strongman rule as a viable alternative to democratic governance.

Opinion: The Uniquely American Future of US Authoritarianism

July 20, 2021

In the United States, particularly, the Republican Party has veered toward authoritarianism in recent years, embracing extremist rhetoric and undermining democratic norms. From attempts to overturn election results to attacks on the judiciary and the media, the GOP’s flirtation with authoritarianism has cast a shadow over the future of American democracy.

The events of January 6, 2021, when rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol in a brazen attempt to overturn a free and fair election, serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of democratic institutions in the face of authoritarian encroachment. The parallels between the celestial and the political are not merely coincidental. Just as a solar eclipse reminds us of the vastness of the cosmos and our place within it, so too do the rise and fall of authoritarian regimes remind us of the fragility of democracy and the constant struggle to preserve it.

BBC: How the solar eclipse may affect the brain and bring people together

As we gaze up at the darkened sun on April 8, reflect not only on the wonders of the universe but also on the challenges facing our own societies. Draw inspiration from the awe-inspiring spectacle above us to reaffirm our commitment to democracy, to reject the siren call of authoritarianism, and to stand together in defence of freedom and justice for all. As the eclipse passes, so too shall the shadow of tyranny be dispelled by the light of liberty…we can only wish. (AI)

From sketch to finish, see the current way Graeme completes an editorial cartoon using an iPencil, the Procreate app, and a couple of cheats on an iPad Pro. If you’re creative, give illustration a try:

Wednesday March 20, 2024

March 20, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday March 20, 2024

The West’s Dangerous Slumber: Apathy and Diminishing Resolve in the Face of Authoritarian Expansionism

February 22, 2024

As the world grapples with the ominous spectre of authoritarian expansionism, the West’s response is marked by a dangerous combination of apathy and diminishing resolve. From the halls of power in Washington to the streets of European capitals, the signs of complacency are unmistakable, and the consequences could not be more dire.

The recent editorial in the Toronto Star, alongside reports of Vladimir Putin’s orchestrated victory in the Russian elections, paints a stark picture of the challenges we face. However, amidst this turmoil, there’s a troubling trend emerging from Canada – a nation known for its commitment to democracy and human rights.

News: Putin claims landslide in Russian election and scorns US democracy

June 6, 2023

While Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government has shown steadfast support for Ukraine, signs of Ukrainian “fatigue” among certain factions in Canada’s political landscape are becoming increasingly apparent. The editorial’s mention of Conservative voters questioning the level of aid to Ukraine speaks volumes about the erosion of resolve within Canadian society.

But the issue extends far beyond Canadian borders. The growing indifference in the United States, particularly among certain political factions, is equally alarming. The editorial’s condemnation of the Republican-led U.S. Congress for turning its back on Kyiv in the face of Russian aggression underscores the depth of this problem.

The Trump-era “America First” rhetoric, coupled with a reluctance to engage meaningfully on the world stage, has created a vacuum that authoritarian leaders like Putin are all too eager to fill. The stalled aid package in the U.S. House of Representatives, tied to unrelated domestic issues, is a glaring example of how short-term political interests can undermine global stability and security.

This trend is not only concerning in its own right but also plays directly into the hands of authoritarian leaders like Putin. A divided West, lacking the unity and determination to confront aggression abroad, only emboldens those who seek to undermine the principles of democracy and freedom.

Editorial: We will be judged if we turn our backs on Ukraine now

May 3, 2022

The headline “The West’s Dangerous Slumber” encapsulates this perilous situation perfectly. It serves as a wake-up call to all who value liberty and democracy, urging them to recognize the signs of authoritarian expansionism and take decisive action before it’s too late.

In the face of adversity, we cannot afford to succumb to apathy or complacency. The time to stand up for our values and defend the vulnerable is now. The fate of Ukraine, the future of democracy, and the stability of the world hang in the balance. Let history remember us not for our indifference but for our unwavering commitment to justice and freedom. (AI)

By Ivan Glassco, The Hamilton Spectator, March 21, 1936

The above cartoon is a parody of one original drawn by The Hamilton Spectator’s Editorial Cartoonist at the time it was published, for March 21, 1936. A braided German girl symbolizing the “Rhine” fitting herself into a dress of armour labelled “Hitler Gowns.” The upper caption reads, “The new dress.” This suggests the militarization and fortification of the Rhine region under Adolf Hitler’s regime, symbolized by the dress of armour. The imagery implies the incorporation of the Rhine, a historically significant river in Germany, into Hitler’s aggressive policies and military expansion. The term “Hitler Gowns” may be used sarcastically to highlight the oppression. Ivan Russell Glassco, was born in Hamilton, Ontario, in 1902. Professionally, he transitioned from architecture, gained recognition for realistic caricatures, and became the editorial cartoonist for the Hamilton Spectator in 1934, before his death in 1941 while training with the Royal Canadian Air Force.

Thursday February 15, 2024

February 15, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday February 15, 2024

Ride-Share Reality: Drivers Struggle as Fees Outweigh Earnings

August 2, 2023

As Valentine’s Day wraps up, the impact of a widespread strike by Uber and Lyft drivers across Canada and the United States becomes evident. Thousands of drivers, standing up against what they see as unfair fees, shed light on the stark contrast between their modest earnings and the hefty profits of app developers and shareholders.

A report from RideFairTO and the Rideshare Drivers Association of Ontario painted a grim picture for Uber drivers in Toronto, revealing they earn a mere $6.37 per hour after expenses, well below Ontario’s minimum wage. Despite Uber’s claim of a median earning of $33.35 per engaged hour, questions about payment transparency linger.

News: Uber, Lyft drivers to strike on Valentine’s Day over pay

September 16, 2021

In response to growing dissatisfaction, Lyft made promises like guaranteeing drivers 70% of their fares weekly and clearer fee breakdowns. Yet, the drivers’ demands for a living wage, transparent pay calculations, and an end to unfair deactivations underscored the need for change in the gig economy.

Safety concerns also came to the forefront, with a rise in carjackings and attacks on drivers. These issues added urgency to the drivers’ grievances.

Despite assurances from Uber and Lyft that past strikes had little impact, the collective voice of drivers in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, and Washington suggested growing discontent. The decline in drivers’ average monthly earnings, as reported by Gridwise, pointed to a concerning trend.

News: Uber, Lyft drivers plan Valentine’s Day strikes across Canada. What to know

As Uber and Lyft downplayed the strikes, the question emerged: how sustainable is a system where drivers feel the need to strike for fair wages and better working conditions?

The Valentine’s Day walkout served as a reminder of the challenges faced by gig workers. While immediate change may not result from these strikes, they shed light on a system on the brink of collapse unless a fairer solution emerges. The future of ride-share gig work depends on addressing the unfair fees and establishing a system that benefits both drivers and the companies they serve. (AI)

After who? Ivan Glassco?

Ivan Russell Glassco, was born in Hamilton, Ontario, in 1902. Professionally, he transitioned from architecture, gained recognition for realistic caricatures, and became the editorial cartoonist for the Hamilton Spectator in 1934, before his death in 1941 while serving with the Royal Canadian Air Force.

Lately, I’ve been taking a little stroll down cartoon memory lane, and guess who I bumped into? Ivan Glassco – a name that’s been kinda sleeping in our archives. Born and bred in Hamilton, Ivan wasn’t just a cartoonist; he was the guy doodling up a storm here back in the ’30s.

Published in The Hamilton Spectator – November 20, 1934

Now, here’s the kicker – we haven’t given him a proper shoutout since ’61. No love, no mentions, just a couple of nods buried in death notices. And, honestly, it got me thinking – how did we let that slide?

So, I started flipping through the old papers, brushing off the cobwebs, and stumbled upon Ivan’s forgotten masterpieces. It’s like finding buried treasure, but instead of gold coins, we get timeless cartoons about stuff that’s still messing with us in 2024.

Sure, his cartoons might feel a bit like they’re from another planet, but the core? It’s pure, timeless brilliance.

Now, I’ve been camped in the same chair as Ivan for almost three decades – a feat that sometimes feels like juggling bowling balls. Trying to fill his shoes is no joke, and it keeps me humble.

As I cooked up my latest cartoon about rideshare struggles, a lightbulb went off – there’s a sprinkle of Glassco in there. A nod to the underdogs fighting the corporate bigwigs. It’s like he left a secret sauce in the ink, challenging me to keep the cartoon torch burning.

Published in The Hamilton Spectator – 19 November 1936

I reckon we need a bit more Ivan Glassco in our cartoon mix. It’s high time we shine a spotlight on the guy who paved the way, even if he’s been in the shadows for a while.

Look, I’m no cartoonist expert, but there’s something special about digging into the work of the originals. Glassco lived in a different era, but his cartoons are like a time machine, still hitting the spot.

So, here’s a toast to Ivan Glassco – the guy who made us laugh, think, and maybe squirm a bit. Let’s bring him back into the banter, not just for the nostalgia kick but because the dude deserves a front-row seat alongside us modern scribblers.

Here’s to the past, present, and all the cartoons still waiting to hit the paper! (Written by Graeme MacKay)