Bert Thomas facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bert Thomas
MBE
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_Thomas_from_NPG.jpg)
Portrait (undated, artist unknown)
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| Born |
Herbert Samuel Thomas
13 October 1883 Newport, Monmouthshire, Wales
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| Died | 6 September 1966 (aged 82) London, England
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| Resting place | Kensal Green Cemetery, London, England |
| Occupation | Political cartoonist |
| Known for |
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| Spouse(s) | Elizabeth Florette Bowen |
| Children | 6 |
| Awards | MBE |
Herbert Samuel Thomas (13 October 1883 – 6 September 1966) was a famous British cartoonist. He drew for Punch magazine. He also created many well-known British posters during the First and Second World Wars. These posters were used to share important messages with the public.
Bert Thomas's Career
Bert Thomas started working for Punch magazine in 1905. He drew cartoons for them until 1935. During the First World War, he was part of a group called the Artists Rifles.
His cartoons were sometimes shown in art galleries. For example, in 1916, one of his war cartoons was displayed in a gallery in London. This cartoon showed the German leader, Kaiser Wilhelm II, talking to a factory worker.
In 1918, Bert Thomas became very famous for his cartoon called "Arf a mo, Kaiser." He drew it very quickly, in just ten minutes. This cartoon was part of a campaign to raise money for soldiers. It helped collect a lot of money for "comforts" like tobacco and cigarettes for troops fighting in the war.
The "Arf a mo, Kaiser" image was so popular that it was used again during the Second World War. This time, the caption changed to "Arf a mo, 'itler," referring to Adolf Hitler. The Germans did not like this cartoon. To make sure British prisoners of war could still get their care packages, Thomas drew a different version. This one had the caption "Are we downhearted?"
In 1918, Bert Thomas was given an award called the MBE. This award recognizes people who have done something important for their country.
His Family Life
Bert Thomas married Elizabeth Florette Bowen on 7 October 1909. They had six children: four sons and two daughters. One of his sons, Peter, also became a cartoonist for Punch magazine, just like his father.
Bert Thomas passed away at his home in London on 6 September 1966. He was buried at Kensal Green Cemetery in London. His brother, Ivor Thomas, was a sculptor.
Images for kids
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Portrait (undated, artist unknown)
