Date of Birth: September 28, 1909
Zodiac Sign: Libra
Date of Death: November 5, 1979
Biography
Al Capp, born Alfred Gerald Caplin, was an American cartoonist and humorist best known for creating the satirical comic strip “Li’l Abner.” Born in New Haven, Connecticut, Capp overcame early adversity, including the loss of his left leg in a trolley accident at age 9, to become one of the most influential cartoonists of the 20th century. He began his career in comics as an apprentice to Ham Fisher, creator of “Joe Palooka,” before launching “Li’l Abner” in 1934. The strip, which humorously depicted the lives of the hillbilly residents of Dogpatch, USA, ran for 43 years and became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring films, a Broadway musical, and merchandise. Capp was known for his sharp wit, keen social commentary, and ability to lampoon both ends of the political spectrum. Despite controversies in his later years, including accusations of sexual misconduct, Capp’s legacy in the world of comic art remains impactful.
5 Interesting Facts about Al Capp
1. Al Capp lost his left leg at the age of 9 in a trolley accident, which influenced his later work and humor.
2. “Li’l Abner” debuted in eight newspapers in 1934 and grew to be syndicated in over 900 newspapers worldwide.
3. Capp’s creation of the character Sadie Hawkins led to the popularization of “Sadie Hawkins Day,” where women could ask men out.
4. He was awarded the National Cartoonists Society’s Reuben Award in 1947.
5. Capp became a frequent guest on television talk shows in the 1960s, often sparring with political figures and showcasing his sharp wit.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Al Capp
1. “Abstract art is a product of the untalented, sold by the unprincipled to the utterly bewildered.”
2. “Any place that anyone can learn something useful from someone with experience is an educational institution.”
3. “The public is like a piano. You just have to know what keys to poke.”
4. “I have no humility. If I had, I would be perfect.”
5. “What’s good for General Bullmoose is good for the USA.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Al Capp’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million, a significant sum for his time.
Children
Al Capp had two children, Colin and Julie Capp.
Relevant Links
1. [Wikipedia – Al Capp](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Al_Capp
2. [Lambiek Comiclopedia – Al Capp](https://www.lambiek.net/artists/c/capp_a.htm
3. [The Art of Al Capp](https://www.nrm.org/2013/11/the-art-of-al-capp/
4. [Al Capp: A Life to the Contrary](https://www.amazon.com/Al-Capp-Life-Contrary/dp/1631490842
