Bill Blackbeard (1926–2011)

Believe it or not, I picked this volume up for a measly dollar at the local library's annual sale. Some massive brain therein apparently goes thru their volumes and decides what they no long need, want, or feel is essential any more. Most probably, their way to decide which is to stay and which is to go is by the number of checkouts in the past few years. Well, what can I say. This is the publics loss and my gain.
A wonderful historical collection of newspaper comics, many of which even this old man doesn't remember. All comics are discussed, including their context and how they related to the world at their time. Some are obviously quite politically incorrect, but an accurate history will necessarily include much of what makes most folks blush and gulp today.
I don't really believe that we are all that sensitive, but for the sake of fitting in, most of us will continue to pretend so.
So when did we begin to depend on cartoons to be honest, revealing, and relaying truth to the masses? Well, probably right from the very beginning!
This book is an essential. No question.… (more)