Begging no Robbery; i.e. Voluntary Contribution, or John Bull Escaping a Forced Loan c. 1796

James Gillray created this hand-colored etching titled "Begging no Robbery" to satirize the political climate of late 18th-century England. It critiques the practice of "voluntary contributions" levied by the government, particularly during times of war, as a thinly veiled form of extortion. The print portrays John Bull, a personification of England, being coerced into giving money under the guise of charity. This reflects the societal pressures and economic burdens faced by ordinary citizens who were encouraged to contribute to the war effort, blurring the line between civic duty and financial coercion. Gillray was a satirist whose work frequently commented on the political events of his time. His prints often targeted the monarchy, government officials, and social elites, using caricature and wit to expose hypocrisy and corruption. Gillray himself said that he aimed to "satirize folly and vice in high places," using his art as a form of social commentary. "Begging no Robbery" serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between government, citizens, and the use of propaganda and financial pressure to achieve political goals. It invites reflection on the emotional and personal dimensions of national identity and civic responsibility.