Collection: Osher Map Library Collection

Name: A Picturesque View of the state of nation for February 1778

Barcode: 54231

Image Number: 54321.0001

Brief Description: Engraved cartoon depicts a low point in Britain's efforts to reign in its rebellious colonies. America is represented by a man in a feathered cap cutting a cow's horns representing British commerce. A Dutchman milks the cow while figures representing France and Spain hold bowls of milk. Included are images of British General Howe and his brother Admiral Howe at a table with a keg while the admiral's flagship is in dry dock.

Publisher: Westminster Magazine

Date/Date Range: Feb 1778

Notes: 10 x 17 cm on sheet 13 x 21 cmHandwritten in pencil on verso: "The Howe brothers inactivity in Philadelphia inspires this widely circulated satire. The Admiral's flagship 'Eagle' (background) is abandoned as he and the General drowse over a punch bowl. The cow of British commerce is milked dry by France, Spain, and Holland while America removes it's horns. A distraught Englishman at right cannot rouse the British Lion."

Language: English

Dimensions: 10 x 17 cm on sheet 13 x 21 cm

Historical Context: At the time of this cartoon General Howe and the main British army were in Winter quarters in Philadelphia after capturing the city. Soon after Burgoyne's army surrendered at Saratoga which paved the way for the Franco-American alliance in early February, 1778.

Subjects: United States History Revolution, 1775-1783

Permanent URL: https://oshermaps.org/map/54321.0001