How Did Political Parties Get Their Animal Symbols? The Story Behind Donkeys, Elephants, and More
In the colorful tapestry of political history, symbols play a significant role in conveying party ideologies and rallying public sentiment. Among the most recognizable symbols in the United States are the Democratic Party's donkey and the Republican Party's elephant. These animal mascots, now synonymous with their respective parties, have fascinating origins rooted in political satire, public perception, and historical events. But how did these symbols come to represent the political parties?
This article takes a detailed look at how political parties in the United States—and beyond—adopted their animal symbols, the meanings behind them, and their lasting impact on political culture.
The Democratic Donkey: Humble Beginnings of a Party Symbol
The donkey has represented the Democr...
