Political Cartoons, 1961-1968

A group of approximately 121 political cartoons (most original art work in pen and ink, a few reproductions) by Gene Basset, Herb Block, Paul Conrad, Gib Crockett, Jon Kennedy, Bill Mauldin,  Pat Oliphant, Newton Truitt, and many others, of which 55 are inscribed to Secretary McNamara. Housed in three albums with brass plaque labels on the front covers.

The bulk of the cartoons focus on McNamara's struggle to curtail military waste, his clashes with an obdurate Congress, and escalation of the Vietnam War. With the exception of the cartoons dealing with Vietnam, the cartoons are very supportive of McNamara's efforts and critical of Congress's hostility toward the need for spending cutbacks. The last album concludes with a cartoon by Gib Crockett depicting McNamara as battered and punch drunk from his struggles with Congress and the situation in Vietnam. He is wearing a badge nominating him for a position at the World Bank. The caption reads: "For Gallantry above and beyond the Call of Duty."