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Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.
Reluctant Dragons
Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.

Reluctant Dragons

Artifact ID1973.1.818
Artist (United States, 1916 - 1978)
Publisher (founded 1920)
Date ca. September 1967
Medium Ink and grease pencil on drawing paper
DimensionsOverall H 24 in x W 18 in (61 cm x 45.7 cm )

Physical Description
Physical DescriptionOriginal cartoon drawing. A dragon with the head of LBJ points a finger, saying "You boost taxes first!". Another dragon ("House Ways and Means Committee") points back saying, "You cut spending first!". Caption: “Reluctant Dragons”. Artist signature lower right: "Warren King”.
Historical NoteWhen Lyndon B. Johnson signed the 1964 Revenue Act that decreased income taxes and refused to raise taxes, spending by consumers and businesses increased. Along with government spending from the Vietnam War and Great Society, all of this increase of demand led to inflation. Inflation could be addressed by raising taxes (which would decrease consumer spending) and decreasing government spending.
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 NoteCopyright 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