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Teacher's Letter Sparked Franklin's Peanuts Debut
25 Jan
Summary
- A teacher's letter prompted Schulz to add Franklin to Peanuts.
- Editors initially opposed some of Franklin's character inclusions.
- A new special explores Franklin's background and his friendship.
In the wake of Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination in April 1968, teacher Harriet Glickman felt compelled to act. She wrote to cartoonist Charles M. Schulz, suggesting a Black character be introduced into the "Peanuts" comic strip to foster understanding and acceptance.
Schulz initially expressed concerns about authenticity but, after consulting with Glickman and others, proceeded with the idea. Despite facing pushback from some editors who objected to Franklin interacting with white characters, Schulz remained resolute.
He famously told his publisher, "Either you print it just the way I draw it or I quit." Franklin Armstrong made his first appearance less than four months after MLK's death, on July 29, 1968.
The introduction of Franklin was met with positive reactions, though not universally welcomed. Over the decades, Franklin evolved into a beloved character. In 2024, "Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin" delved deeper into his narrative, highlighting his military family background and his initial meeting with Charlie Brown.
