Thomas Nast was a prominent American cartoonist in the 19th century, known for his influential political illustrations. Born on September 27, 1840, in Germany, he immigrated to the United States as a child. Nast's work appeared in various publications, most notably in Harper's Weekly, where he used his art to comment on social and political issues of the time. Nast is often credited with creating the modern image of Santa Claus and popularizing the elephant as the symbol of the Republican Party. His cartoons played a significant role in shaping public opinion, particularly during the American Civil War and the fight against political corruption in New York City.