Join or Die Rattlesnake: Cartoon Benjamin Franklin Photo Print

The "Join or Die" snake cartoon, a powerful symbol of unity, was created by Benjamin Franklin in 1754. It emerged during a time of growing tension between the British colonies in North America and the French and their Native American allies. - The French and Indian War was looming, and Franklin, a delegate to the Albany Congress, recognised the need for colonial unity to effectively counter the combined threat. He saw the disjointed nature of the colonies as a major weakness, hindering their ability to mount a coordinated defence. - Drawing inspiration from various sources, including a French proverb and natural history illustrations, Franklin devised the "Join or Die" image. The severed snake, divided into eight segments representing the colonies, served as a stark warning. It conveyed the message that if the colonies remained divided, they would be vulnerable to attack and ultimately perish. - The cartoon was published in Franklin's newspaper, The Pennsylvania Gazette, on May 9, 1754. It quickly gained attention and sparked debate among colonists. Some saw it as a call to action, urging them to unite for their survival. Others dismissed it as alarmist and unnecessary. - Although the Albany Congress failed to achieve its goal of establishing a unified colonial government, the "Join or Die" cartoon left a lasting impact. It became a powerful symbol of colonial unity and foreshadowed the eventual coming together of the colonies during the American Revolution. - The "Join or Die" snake would later reappear during the Revolutionary War, reminding the colonists of the importance of their collective strength. It continues to be recognised as a significant piece of American history, representing the early calls for unity that ultimately led to the birth of a nation.