Daladier & Herriot - Blum & Renaudel Circa 1930

This striking political caricature from around 1930 is a powerful piece of propaganda illustrating the perceived submission of the French Radical-Socialist Party to the Socialist Party. Produced by the Centre de Propagande des Républicains Nationaux, the poster critiques the political alignment of Édouard Daladier and Édouard Herriot, two prominent figures of the Radical-Socialist Party, with the leaders of the SFIO (French Section of the Workers' International), namely Léon Blum and Pierre Renaudel.

Rendered in a vivid and satirical style, the illustration shows Daladier and Herriot in a small boat labeled Parti Socialiste, being towed by the larger vessel captained by the SFIO leaders. Daladier is depicted in a submissive posture, reflecting his famous 1929 declaration to the socialist parliamentary group: “J’irai jusqu’où vous voudrez… Dites-moi ce que vous voulez faire! Je m’en rapporte à vous!!” ("I will go wherever you want... Tell me what you want to do! I defer to you!!"). This quote, prominently featured at the top, underlines the message of political surrender.

The poster mocks the weakening independence of the Radical-Socialists, accusing them of being pulled along by socialist ideology instead of steering their own course. The visual exaggerations—such as the expressionless Daladier, a resigned Herriot, and the triumphant socialists—emphasize the imbalance of influence and the satire of political dependency.

This piece is not just a political jab; it's an artifact of the fierce ideological battles between center-left and leftist factions in France’s Third Republic. Through humor and exaggeration, it aimed to stir public opinion against coalition politics and the growing socialist influence over liberal radicals. The aesthetic and message reflect the art of persuasion at the heart of interwar political communication.

Politique - Caricature - France

Socialist Party and Radical Party - National Republican Propaganda Center

Imprimé à Paris

Good condition, creases, a small tear