In the age of social media, there is a significant shift in communication methods. However, this is not the first revolutionary change, and cats have always played a role in social transformations.
It is a rule of media history that whenever a new means of communication emerges, cats become a popular subject. These cat images not only reflect the unique bond between humans and their pets but also depict the evolving dynamics of human relationships.
The concept of cat memes traces back to the 1990s, when email enabled individuals to share amusing cat content with each other. As the internet progressed, cat-related viral videos like Keyboard Cat and memes such as Grumpy Cat gained popularity on various platforms. The demand for this content led to the creation of entire websites dedicated to showcasing the best cat-related humor.
Before cats "had cheezburger" or owners could easily record pet videos with smartphones, there was the Edwardian postcard. Scholars in media history suggest that examining early 20th-century cat postcards can offer insights into today's social media landscape.
"Some elements endure across generations and media forms, and cat depictions are one such example, providing a sense of continuity," says Ben Weiss, a senior curator at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, postcards functioned akin to present-day social media platforms. Serving as a quicker and more affordable alternative to letters, postcards were used for exchanging thoughts, organizing meetups, sharing jokes, and of course, circulating cat images.
The advent of postcards in Austria-Hungary in 1869 coincided with the establishment of the Universal Postal Union in 1874, which facilitated international mail exchanges. Postcards thrived during this period, becoming integral to the fast-paced communication network of the time.
Postcards, like memes, symbolized more than just images and text; they represented a vast network and the advanced technologies that enabled their quick distribution. They signified the progress of technology and its impact on society, bridging distances and connecting individuals worldwide.
Between 1900 and 1914, postcard culture experienced a boom, with countless postcards circulating globally. This period marked a turning point in communication, as rapid and affordable correspondence became accessible to the general populace for the first time.
Cats seized the opportunity presented by the postcard craze to establish themselves as iconic figures on this new medium. Postcards featuring feline subjects engaged in various activities – from mundane behavior to human-like roles – captured the imagination of audiences worldwide.
However, not all welcomed the influence of postcards. Some critics viewed postcards as a threat, citing concerns such as potential harm to writing skills and fostering superficial relationships. The open nature of postcards also raised privacy worries among the public.
Similar apprehensions persist today with the rise of social media, which critics argue leads to accelerated communication, security risks, and superficial interactions. The evolution of communication technologies invariably challenges traditional norms and societal paradigms.
Political movements of the early 20th century, such as the Suffrage movement, harnessed the power of postcards for advocacy and fundraising purposes. Cats featured prominently in Suffrage postcards, serving as potent symbols in conveying political messages and mobilizing support.
The legacy of Suffrage cat postcards continues to resonate with contemporary audiences, exemplifying the enduring appeal of cat-themed visual content. These historical artifacts bridge the gap between past and present, emphasizing the timeless allure of cute and amusing animal portrayals in media.
In conclusion, from postcards to memes, the history of media stands as a testament to humanity's enduring fascination with sharing adorable and humorous animal images, reflecting our intrinsic desire for connection and self-expression.
Meet the Forgotten Pioneer of Cat Memes from 100 Years Ago
OdderThanArt
