History/Meaning of Political Logos
Republican Party
The Republican Elephant first appeared in a cartoon by Thomas Nast during the 1870's. Harper's Weekly drew the Democratic Donkey in a lion's skin and depicted it scaring away all the other animals at the zoo. The elephant was labeled "The Republican Vote." The Republican Elephant continued to be used, immediately becoming the Republicans' new symbol. Of course, the Republican Elephant proudly sows off its red white and blue, visually and permanently tying the logo's affirmation to American Politics.
Democratic Party
The Democratic Donkey was first associated with Andrew Jackson during his presidential campaign in the 18oo's. His opponents called him a "jackass" (a donkey). Rather than allowing his opponents use it to degrade his image, Jackson decided to use the strong-willed donkey on his campaign posters in an effort to portray his strong-willed attitude. Of course, the Democratic Donkey proudly sows off its red white and blue, visually and permanently tying the logo's affirmation to American Politics.
Independent Party
The Independent Party does not have a historical tale, but rather embodies elements that deem the party patriotic and tied to America's past. Like most political party's logos, the Independent Party's logo is red white and blue and encompass an American Flag to showcase the party's patriotism. The I in the center with the American flag and eagle also give the impression ob both forward movement and historical ties (flag and color), the exact impression that the logo was meant to have on the American People. Combined, the elements in the party's logo help to showcase the ideals and beliefs of the Independent Party.
Green Party
Like the Independent Party, the Green Party's logo does not have any historical ties. Rather, the Green Party relies on strong visual cues to portray their desire to save the planet and reduce the carbon footprint of the United States. The green color scheme and blooming planet within flower petals allude to the idea of birth and growth while incorporating the earth, graphic elements commonly used in environmentalism. Even though this logo does not have any visual cues that directly reflect patriotism or American heritage/values, their logo is recognizable and characteristic of the work that the Green Party wishes to accomplish.
Tea Party
Like the Independent and Green Party, the American Tea Party's logo is based primarily on graphic design. The logo itself, as is the case in most political party logos, is primarily red white and blue and encompass an American flag to signify the party's American Patriotism. There is, however, an additional element of the logo that is unique to visually signify the party's proposition about government: the hand of lady liberty is in the center of the logo, and is in front of the American Flag (signifying that it is on top in level of priority comparatively). This one crucial placement of Lady Liberty, visually showing that personal liberties and rights are far more important than government, and that less government protects Americans' rights and liberties.