Was Garfield Named After the Cat or the Late President?

Many people have drawn parallels between the famous cartoon cat, Garfield, and the 20th President of the United States, James A. Garfield. However, these parallels are often misleading, leading to misconceptions about the origins of the iconic character. In reality, the beloved fat cat was named after Jim Davis's grandfather.

Origins of the Name

The origins of the name Garfield can be traced back to the creator of the iconic comic strip, Jim Davis. Many believe that the cat is named after President Garfield due to the similarity in names. However, this is not the case. Jim Davis named his famous creation after his grandfather, who had a middle name of Garfield.

Jim Davis, a long-time cartoonist, created the character of Garfield in 1978, which quickly grew in popularity, leading to a surge in merchandise and a successful marketing empire. The character's name, therefore, is a nod to Davis's family, rather than a tribute to the former President.

The Impact of the Name

The name Garfield, derived from both the 20th U.S. President and Jim Davis's family, has had a significant impact on the character and its portrayal. People often find the coincidence of the names intriguing and humorous, despite the fact that they are not connected in any official capacity.

Comic Strip and Merchandise

The creation of the comic strip Garfield and the subsequent expansion into a full-fledged empire of merchandise and marketing have solidified the character's place in popular culture. The comic strip first appeared in newspaper comics sections and quickly gained a dedicated following. This success led to numerous books, TV specials, and eventually a successful animated TV series and feature films.

The merchandise, ranging from toys to clothing, featuring the iconic orange tabby cat has become a multi-billion dollar industry. This empire has allowed Jim Davis and the character of Garfield to reach a massive audience, with fans around the world.

Conclusion

So, the next time you hear someone mention that Garfield was named after the late President James Garfield, you can correct them with confidence. Garfield, the cartoon cat, was indeed named after Jim Davis's grandfather, a fact that adds a personal touch to the character.

The success of the character is a testament to the power of a name and the creativity of a character in the entertainment industry. Whether it’s named after a famous president or a family member, the name and the creation stand on their own merits, captivating audiences with humor, satire, and heart.