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Herblock stood out as the most syndicated political cartoonist of the 20th century, but his impact reached beyond this title. Though Watergate and Mr. Atom have passed, the influence of his style has persisted. His ability to portray these events while upholding his opinion, staying accurate and being truthful was unique. He prioritized the message of every cartoon, yet managed to be both serious and humorous. Herblock’s engaging cartoons were simple yet thoughtful, his drawing style and unique independent opinion garnered respect and influenced his peers even after he passed. The unwavering standard of quality in his relentless attacks on tough issues is esteemed to this day. Cartoonists today admire his work, despite the fact that Herblock’s work first began in the 20s.
People read Herblock, people respected Herblock, and people remembered Herblock. |
“Herb was different in that he was great. A master of visual metaphor and how to make a point simply and with great power. He had a quality I always admired, and tried to emulate.” -Cartoonist Tony Auth [1] |
"His impact on cartooning was profound. Most of all, he never lost his passion… He maintained a high standard of quality in his work. That is what inspires me most about him, even today.” -Cartoonist Jim Morin [2] |
"This Guy Isn't Recording History ... This Guy Is Making History" Joell Pett. [3]
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Barack Obama at The Herblock Prize Dinner, 2005. [4]
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"Its flabbergasting that he was alive and influenced our history, so many of the issues he covered in the 40s and 50s are still issues today.... he did have a big influence over the US and its history. "
- Vice President of The Herb Block Foundation, Jean Rickard [5]