Fifty years ago, a significant change occurred in the world of comic strips with the introduction of Franklin, the first African American character in the Peanuts comic strip. This groundbreaking character was a result of a conversation between Peanuts creator Charles M. Schulz and Harriet Glickman, a California school teacher, following the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968.
Harriet Glickman, a mother of three, reached out to Schulz with a proposal to include African American children in the Peanuts cast as a positive response to the tragic event. Despite facing challenges such as resistance from newspapers and advertisers, Schulz was determined to make a statement. On July 31st, Franklin made his debut in the comic strip when he met Charlie Brown at the beach.
The introduction of Franklin was not without controversy. Schulz faced criticism from some readers and even the head of King Features Syndicate, Larry Rutman, who wanted changes to Franklin’s character. However, Schulz remained steadfast in his decision to portray Franklin thoughtfully and authentically.
Franklin’s character development went beyond just being a token inclusion. Schulz added depth to his character by revealing that Franklin’s father was serving in Vietnam, adding a layer of topical relevance to the storyline. Despite not having the quirky traits of other Peanuts characters, Franklin’s presence was revolutionary and paved the way for greater diversity in comic strips.
Over the years, Franklin became a regular in the Peanuts strip and appeared in various media adaptations, including animated films and specials. His kindness and fairness towards Charlie Brown, along with his non-stereotypical portrayal, made him a beloved character among Peanuts fans.
The addition of Franklin to the Peanuts universe was a significant moment in comic strip history, challenging societal norms and advocating for diversity and inclusion. Schulz’s decision to introduce Franklin as the first African American character in the Peanuts comic strip was a bold and impactful move that continues to resonate with audiences today.
