Paul Conrad

Date of Birth: June 27, 1924

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: September 4, 2010

Biography

Paul Conrad was a renowned American political cartoonist whose work left an indelible mark on American journalism and political commentary. Born on June 27, 1924, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Conrad went on to become one of the most influential and acerbic political cartoonists of the 20th century. He earned his bachelor’s degree in art from the University of Iowa in 1950, after serving in the Army during World War II. Conrad began his professional career at the Denver Post before joining the Los Angeles Times in 1964, where his sharp wit and incisive cartoons earned him three Pulitzer Prizes for Editorial Cartooning in 1964, 1971, and 1984. His work didn’t just reflect the political climate; it often shaped public opinion and held those in power accountable. Known for his fearless and often controversial drawings, Conrad did not shy away from tackling hot-button issues, be it the Vietnam War, civil rights, or presidential scandals. Throughout his career, Conrad faced both acclaim and criticism, but he remained steadfast in his commitment to the principles of free speech and the watchdog role of journalism. He continued to draw until his retirement in 1993, leaving behind a legacy of more than 20,000 cartoons. Paul Conrad passed away on September 4, 2010, in Rancho Palos Verdes, California.

5 Interesting Facts about Paul Conrad

1. Paul Conrad won three Pulitzer Prizes for Editorial Cartooning.

2. He served in the Army during World War II before pursuing a career in art and journalism.

3. Conrad was on the Nixon administration’s “Enemies List” due to his critical cartoons.

4. He worked for the Los Angeles Times for nearly three decades.

5. Despite facing threats and legal challenges, Conrad never wavered in his commitment to free speech.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Paul Conrad

1. “I believe in the First Amendment, and I use it fully.”

2. “Cartoons are not gentle, they’re not subtle, and they’re not meant to be.”

3. “My job is to provoke, to challenge, to stir people up.”

4. “A good cartoon should punch you in the gut.”

5. “Freedom of speech is useless without the freedom to offend.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The highest net worth achieved by Paul Conrad was estimated to be around $1 million.

Children

Paul Conrad had four children: David, Jamie, Carol, and Stephan. His family often supported his career, despite the controversies it sometimes brought.