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Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.
Hope Springs Eternal
Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.

Hope Springs Eternal

Artifact ID1973.1.893
Artist (1902 - 1991)
Date ca. December 1963
Medium Ink and grease pencil on drawing paper
DimensionsOverall H 16 5/8 in x W 13 3/8 in (42.2 cm x 34 cm )

Physical Description
Physical DescriptionOriginal cartoon drawing. Smiling LBJ as a street Santa rings a bell with "economy promises." A taxpayer who has run to 5 other Santas now happily approaches LBJ. An additional piece of paper “© 1963, Chicago’s American” adhered to lower left. Caption: “Hope Springs Eternal”. Artist signature lower left: "Shoemaker”.
Historical NoteThe Revenue Act of 1964 was passed by Lyndon Johnson February 26th. It was initially proposed by John F. Kennedy and reduced income tax rates, leading to an economic boom. John Q Public is a character often included in political cartoons to depict the average citizen, often portrayed with glasses, a mustache, and a fedora.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteThe item was a gift from the general public to President Johnson during his term in office. It was received by President Johnson, until the President donated it to the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum in 1973.
Credit LineGift of Lyndon Baines Johnson
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Fully
Use Restriction Note© 1963, Chicago’s American
Copyright or other proprietary rights are held by individuals or entities other than the LBJ Presidential Library and Museum. The LBJ Presidential Library and Museum does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
Person Referenced Lyndon Baines Johnson (United States, 1908 - 1973)
Not on view
Place of Publication