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The Rhodes Colossus, 1892 Artist: Edward Linley Sambourne
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The Rhodes Colossus, 1892 Artist: Edward Linley Sambourne
The Rhodes Colossus, 1892. Cecil Rhodes (1853-1902), English-born South African businessman and statesman, shown striding across Africa from Cape Town to Cairo with a telegraph wire. Cartoon from Punch. (London, 10 December 1892)
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Media ID 14836814
© Ann Ronan Picture Library / Heritage-Images
Business Businessman Cecil J Rhodes Cecil John Cecil John Rhodes Cecil Rhodes Colossus Commerce Edward Linley Edward Linley Sambourne Empire Builder Entrepreneur Imperialism Imperialist Rhodes Sambourne South Africa South African Telegraph Cable Telegraphy Ann Ronan Pictures British Empire
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The Rhodes Colossus - A Symbol of Colonial Power and Ambition
EDITORS COMMENTS
. This print captures a significant moment in history, depicting "The Rhodes Colossus" - an iconic cartoon from Punch magazine dating back to 1892. Created by the talented artist Edward Linley Sambourne, this satirical artwork portrays Cecil Rhodes, an English-born South African businessman and statesman. In this thought-provoking image, we see Rhodes striding across Africa from Cape Town to Cairo while holding a telegraph wire. This powerful symbolism represents his ambitious vision of connecting the vast continent through modern communication infrastructure. As one of the key figures in British imperialism during the late 19th century, Rhodes aimed to expand British influence and commerce throughout Africa. Sambourne's caricature brilliantly captures both the admiration and criticism surrounding Rhodes' actions. The image reflects the complex relationship between colonialism, politics, and business during that era. It serves as a reminder of how individuals like Cecil Rhodes played pivotal roles in shaping history through their entrepreneurial pursuits within imperialist frameworks. This remarkable print offers us a glimpse into a time when nations vied for power on foreign lands while raising questions about their intentions and impact on local populations. It invites us to reflect upon our own understanding of empire-building endeavors that have shaped our world today.
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