Did You Know Texas Annexation Was So Controversial It Became a National Political Cartoon in 1844? 🤠⭐

Before Texas ever became the 28th state, it was the hottest political fight in America — and this extraordinary 1844 lithograph captures exactly how explosive that battle was. 🗳️🔥

Created by artist H. Bucholzer and published by New York printer James S. Baillie, this pro-Democrat cartoon is essentially a victory lap before the votes were even counted. On the bridge above, a wheeled steamboat proudly labeled “TEXAS” rolls forward, its eagle figurehead leading the charge. Aboard stand two symbolic Texas figures — the spirit of founding father Stephen F. Austin, who had died in 1836, waving the Lone Star Republic flag and crying “All hail to James K. Polk, the friend of our Country!” and Sam Houston standing stoically at the stern. On the bridge, presidential candidate James K. Polk tips his hat and welcomes them with “Welcome Texas! Welcome brothers.” 🎩

Below that bridge? Absolute chaos. The anti-annexation Whigs are literally being dragged into “Salt River” — a 19th century expression meaning total political defeat. Henry Clay, the Whig presidential nominee, grabs the rope tied to the Texas vessel crying “Curse the day that ever I got hold of this rope!” Alongside him tumble Daniel Webster, Theodore Frelinghuysen, Henry A. Wise, and an unidentified figure, each lamenting their doomed position.

Meanwhile abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison, straddling a barrel labeled “Abolition” in the river, shouts insults at Clay — nobody comes out of this cartoon looking dignified. 😂

Polk won the 1844 election largely on the promise of Texas annexation, and Texas formally joined the Union on December 29, 1845. The cartoonist called it early. 📜

History has a sense of humor — especially Texas history. Who’s your favorite figure in this chaotic scene? 👇