The History Of Political Satire

The History of Political Satire – From Mark Twin To Stephen Colbert

“Politicians and diapers should both be changed regularly, and for the same reason” or so said America’s first great political satirist, Mark Twain.  Although the history of political satire in America begins with Twain, we will trace it’s rambunctious history in the great multimedia presentation

Beginning with Mark Twain, this funny and thought provoking multimedia presentation will trace the rise of political satire by looking at some of its greatest practitioners, including Will Rogers, Mort Sahl, Dennis Miller, and Stephen Colbert.

Although Mark Twain and Will  Rogers began the art form of political satire as public entertainment, the history of political satire shows that it has moved from a novelty to a staple of show business. 

With the rise of television in the 1950s, political satire became a vastly amusing and important part of the discussion about government and elections. Mort Sahl’s controversial monologues eventually led to the Smothers Brothers, Saturday Night Live and The Daily Show. With the proliferation of cable TV and late night talk/comedy shows, you can barely escape political comedy if you tried! 

Join us for lots of insights, some amazing history and many hilarious film clips as we trace the history of political satire in the USA!