Rube Goldberg

Overview

Reuben Garrett Lucius Goldberg, better known as Rube Goldberg, was a prolific American cartoonist, sculptor, author, engineer, and inventor. He is best remembered for his whimsical cartoons depicting complex devices that perform simple tasks in indirect and convoluted ways, now famously known as 'Rube Goldberg machines.' His work satirized the era's increasing reliance on technology and became a cultural touchstone, influencing everything from art and engineering to popular entertainment.

Main Milestones

Birth in San Francisco

July 4, 1883

Reuben Garrett Lucius Goldberg was born on Independence Day in San Francisco, California, to Hannah and Max Goldberg. His father, a successful businessman, encouraged him to pursue a practical profession, setting the stage for Rube's initial foray into engineering.

Graduation from UC Berkeley with an Engineering Degree

1903

Following his father's wishes, Goldberg earned a degree in engineering from the University of California, Berkeley. This provided him with a solid foundation in mechanics and problem-solving, skills which he later cleverly subverted and parodied in his cartoon creations.

Sports Cartoonist at the San Francisco Chronicle

1904

After a brief stint working as an engineer for the city of San Francisco, Goldberg followed his passion and took a job as a sports cartoonist for the San Francisco Chronicle. This was his first formal entry into the world of art and laid the groundwork for his future success as a cartoonist.

Move to New York and Rise to National Prominence

1907

Goldberg moved to New York City and began working for various newspapers, including the Evening Mail. It was here that he began to develop and popularize his signature style of cartooning featuring ridiculously complex inventions. His work quickly gained national recognition.

The Emergence of 'Professor Lucifer G. Butts'

1915

This period marked the rise in popularity of some of Goldberg's most iconic cartoon series, particularly those featuring Professor Lucifer G. Butts, the prototype for many of his future 'inventor' characters. These cartoons, depicting elaborate and impractical contraptions, cemented his fame and established the 'Rube Goldberg machine' as a cultural phenomenon.

Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning

1948

Goldberg received the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning for his cartoon "Peace Today," a commentary on the dangers of atomic warfare. This award recognized his ability to use his artistic skills to address serious social and political issues, demonstrating a broader range than just humorous inventions.

Cartooning in Support of the War Effort

World War II Era

During World War II, Goldberg used his cartooning skills to support the war effort, creating propaganda posters and cartoons that encouraged patriotism and vigilance. His contributions helped boost morale and reinforce the importance of national unity.

Sculptural Works and Later Career

1960s

In his later years, Goldberg transitioned into sculpture, creating abstract and whimsical pieces that reflected his inventive spirit. He continued to be a respected figure in the art world and remained active until his death.

Death in New York City

December 7, 1970

Rube Goldberg passed away in New York City at the age of 87. His legacy lives on through his influential cartoons, the enduring concept of the 'Rube Goldberg machine', and numerous competitions and events that celebrate creativity, engineering, and humor.

Other Themed Timelines

Early Career: From Sports Cartoonist to National Recognition (1904-1915)

Early Life and Education: The Foundation of Creativity (1883-1904)

Evolution of Cartoon Style and Themes

Later Years and Legacy (1950-1970)

Peak of Cartooning Career and Diversification (1915-1940)

Personal Life and Family Relationships

Political Cartooning and World War II Era (1940-1950)

Themed Timelines

Talks

Media Collections

Overview

Other Themed Timelines