why are the symbols of our politiacl parties donkeys and elephants?

Answer 1

For the democratic party, the symbol of the donkey is for work ethic. A donkey is a tough pack animal that will work all day as needed, then do it all over the next day. It is supposed to be a symbol of the working man.

I don't remember why Republicans picked elephant though.

Answer 2

On a literal, face-value level, I agree with the first answerer, the imagery did originate in political cartoons from the late 1800s. Also known as the Age of Robber Barons, this was *way* before we even could *imagine* any sort of electronic Mass Media...so printed newspapers, backed up by that newfangled *telegraph* invention, and later on the cutting-edge *telephone*, were the internet of the day.

And they needed *strong* imagery to get the attention of the overworked, under-educated masses. Sound familiar at all?

Which brings me to my point. ^_^ Donkeys and elephants are both *herd animals*. Yes, one could argue that donkeys are more "working class" while elephants represent more "royal" animals, but this misses the point entirely.

They're herd animals. Like sheep or cattle. This really *really* should tell you exactly what politicians (and evangelical fundies too) think of their voting constituents. They see us as herd animals who *can't* think away from the peer pressure and mentality of the horde. They see us as animals who need to be trained and guided.

Again, does this sound familiar at all? And you wonder why people react so strongly and so *negatively* to people voting for independents or third party candidates. How dare they break away from the herd?? o_O

Just my three cents, brought to you by my Inner Cold, Cynical Bastid. ^_^ Thanks for your time.

Answer 3

They are from a political cartoon from Thomas Nast in the late 19th century. See the link below.

Answer 4

Because donkey's are Asses, and Elephants are lazy...lol.