Comic Strip / Comics

What Comic Strip Was Awarded the Pulitzer Prize in 1987?

In 1987, a comic strip won the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning. This was a significant moment in the history of comics, as it marked the first time that a comic strip had been awarded this prestigious prize.

The Comic Strip:

The comic strip in question was “Bloom County,” created by Berkeley Breathed. It was a satirical comic strip that ran from 1980 to 1989, and it gained a massive following during its run.

The Pulitzer Prize:

The Pulitzer Prize is an award given for achievements in journalism, literature, and musical composition. The award was established by Joseph Pulitzer, who was a Hungarian-American journalist and newspaper publisher.

The Significance of the Award:

The awarding of the Pulitzer Prize to “Bloom County” was significant for several reasons. Firstly, it recognized the artistic merit of comic strips as an art form. Secondly, it highlighted the role that cartoonists play in political and social commentary.

The Impact of “Bloom County”:

“Bloom County” was known for its humorous yet insightful commentary on politics and society. The characters in the strip were beloved by readers around the world, and they often tackled controversial topics such as nuclear war, censorship, and animal rights.

The Legacy of “Bloom County”:

After its initial run ended in 1989, “Bloom County” returned briefly in 1995 before going on hiatus again. However, Berkeley Breathed revived the strip once more in 2015 with “Bloom County 2015.” This new iteration of the beloved comic continues to tackle current events with wit and humor.

  • Conclusion:

In conclusion, “Bloom County” winning the Pulitzer Prize in 1987 marked a significant moment for comics as an art form. It recognized the impact that cartoonists can have on society and highlighted the importance of political and social commentary in comics. Even today, “Bloom County” continues to entertain and inspire readers around the world with its unique brand of humor and insight.