1

Mickey Mouse

Image: Kadyn Pierce

We’ll start strong with what’s probably the most famous cartoon character in the world. When you think about it, it’s rather uncanny how instantly recognizable Mickey Mouse is: It only takes drawing three small circles for virtually anyone in the world to identify Disney’s iconic mascot.

However, while nowadays Mickey acts more like a spokesperson for Disney, he got his start as a groundbreaking cartoon character, featured in now legendary shorts like "Steamboat Willie", "The Plow Boy", and "The Barn Dance". Perhaps more famous is Mickey’s short included in the feature film "Fantasia", in which he plays a clumsy sorcerer’s apprentice.

2

Charlie Brown & Snoopy

Image: Joshua Carl

We couldn’t possibly add the main character of the "Peanuts" newspaper strips without including his iconic black and white dog. Charlie Brown and Snoopy have been featured in several TV shows, including many fondly remembered Christmas specials.

Charlie Brown’s "aw-shucks" attitude and Snoopy’s mischievous charisma have truly cemented them as two of the most popular cartoon characters in history. Since their first TV appearance in 1965, this duo is still featured in new specials and films, with their latest show premiering in 2021.

3

Garfield

Image: Jason Yuen

Another newspaper strip-turned-animated character, Garfield is one of the most relatable characters in this list. Now, you might be thinking "What on God’s green earth do I have in common with a cartoon orange cat?" Well, more than you think: Garfield’s smarts, love for food, and utter disdain for Mondays truly turned him into one of America’s favorite cartoon pets.

Garfield’s jump from Jim Davis’ comics to TV first came in the early 80s, through a number of Emmy-nominated specials that included "Here Comes Garfield", "Garfield on the Town", and "Garfield in the Rough". In 1988, our favorite feline debuted in his very own TV show called "Garfield and Friends".

4

Scooby-Doo

Image: Brandon Salabarría

Is your town haunted by strange apparitions, dastardly creatures, or terrifying monsters? Then it sounds like you need the help of four meddling kids and their dog! Scooby-Doo revolutionized cartoons by adding crime-solving to a mostly comedic genre. Every week, the amateur detectives of "Mystery Inc." would solve a mystery, unmasking a no-good villain pretending to be some sort of fantastical creature.

The gang was aided by Scooby, their cowardly yet lovable Great Dane. Although he preferred eating snacks over solving mysteries, he ultimately always helped his friends whenever they needed him. Fun fact: Did you know that Scooby’s name was inspired by a Frank Sinatra song?

5

The Flintstones

Image: Bekir Uğur

Did you know that our favorite prehistoric family was the very first animated series featured in a prime time slot? That goes to show how much America loved the Flintstones : Every week, millions of families turned to their TV screens to laugh away with Fred, Wilma, Barney, and Betty’s adventures.

Set in the fictional town of Bedrock, "The Flintstones" featured a rather imaginative depiction of the Stone Age, mixing prehistoric elements with modern issues. Perhaps most famously, the show depicted prehistoric versions of modern appliances, like an octopus dishwasher or a dinosaur-can opener.

6

The Jetsons

Image: Rock'n Roll Monkey

While in "The Flintstones" Hannah-Barbera showcased the adventures of a Prehistoric family, the iconic animation studio went in the opposite direction with " The Jetsons ": For this show, the studio asked the question "How would the typical Space Age American family be?"

This show follows the everyday life of the Jetson family, comprised of George, Jane, Judy, and Elroy Jetson. Just like "The Flintstones", the show is fondly remembered for reimagining everyday technology: It predicted video calls and automated helpers decades before the first iPhone was produced.

7

Tom & Jerry

Image: Teresa Jang

Who says rivals can’t make up a good duo? If anything, Tom and Jerry’s legacy was built in this constant and neverending bickering, resulting in hilarious and exciting confrontations that don’t usually end up good for this beloved tomcat.

Another animated treasure conceived by the minds of William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, Tom and Jerry made use of these two characters’ insane charisma: Although they were mostly silent, their expressions and resourcefulness truly made them unforgettable. Several "Tom & Jerry" shorts received Academy Awards, including the fan-favorite episode "The Cat Concerto."

8

Popeye

Image: thomas RICHARD

If Garfield made us love lasagna, then Popeye had the slightly more difficult mission of making kids enjoy eating their spinach. And yet, this iconic sailor made such a daunting task look easy by showcasing the Herculean strength this simple vegetable gave him.

Popeye made his big screen debut in 1933 after Betty Boop creator Max Fleischer adapted the character’s adventures into a series of shorts. Fleischer was the first to include Popeye’s love for spinach, turning it into the character’s most famous trait. Whenever he was in trouble, Popeye would turn to a can of spinach that would always give him the strength needed to save his beloved Olive Oyl from the hands of the villainous Brutus.

9

Yogi Bear

Image: Jessica Weiller

If you ever find yourself enjoying a gorgeous day in the beautiful (although fictional) "Jellystone Park", keep an eye on your picnic basket! Just a small lapse is all Yogi Bear (and his trusted companion, Boo-Boo Bear) need to take your delicious refreshments. Created by Hanna-Barbera in 1958, Yogi first appeared as a supporting character in "The Huckleberry Hound Show", but he soon found his way into the hearts of the American public.

Yogi was as charming as he was mischievous: He would often speak in rhyme and come up with elaborate plans that ultimately blew up on his face. Yogi was constantly evading Ranger Smith, the overworked park ranger tasked with keeping visitors' food safe from this beloved bear.

10

Looney Tunes

Image: Portuguese Gravity

We’ll end this article with a bit of a pun since this cartoon series is known for its send-off message " That’s all Folks! " Just like Mickey Mouse and Tom & Jerry, the Looney Tunes come straight from the Golden Age of American animation, and it truly shows: Not only are their cartoons insanely funny, but they have remained relevant and inspiring since their debut in the 1930s.

Looney Tunes introduced the world to iconic characters like Bugs Bunny, Porky Pig, Daffy Dug, Wile E. Coyote, and the Road Runner. Their charming personalities, wacky adventures, and quirky manners truly marked a turning point in the history of American cartoons.

1

Mickey Mouse

Image: Kadyn Pierce

We’ll start strong with what’s probably the most famous cartoon character in the world. When you think about it, it’s rather uncanny how instantly recognizable Mickey Mouse is: It only takes drawing three small circles for virtually anyone in the world to identify Disney’s iconic mascot.

However, while nowadays Mickey acts more like a spokesperson for Disney, he got his start as a groundbreaking cartoon character, featured in now legendary shorts like "Steamboat Willie", "The Plow Boy", and "The Barn Dance". Perhaps more famous is Mickey’s short included in the feature film "Fantasia", in which he plays a clumsy sorcerer’s apprentice.

2

Charlie Brown & Snoopy

Image: Joshua Carl

We couldn’t possibly add the main character of the "Peanuts" newspaper strips without including his iconic black and white dog. Charlie Brown and Snoopy have been featured in several TV shows, including many fondly remembered Christmas specials.

Charlie Brown’s "aw-shucks" attitude and Snoopy’s mischievous charisma have truly cemented them as two of the most popular cartoon characters in history. Since their first TV appearance in 1965, this duo is still featured in new specials and films, with their latest show premiering in 2021.

3

Garfield

Image: Jason Yuen

Another newspaper strip-turned-animated character, Garfield is one of the most relatable characters in this list. Now, you might be thinking "What on God’s green earth do I have in common with a cartoon orange cat?" Well, more than you think: Garfield’s smarts, love for food, and utter disdain for Mondays truly turned him into one of America’s favorite cartoon pets.

Garfield’s jump from Jim Davis’ comics to TV first came in the early 80s, through a number of Emmy-nominated specials that included "Here Comes Garfield", "Garfield on the Town", and "Garfield in the Rough". In 1988, our favorite feline debuted in his very own TV show called "Garfield and Friends".

4

Scooby-Doo

Image: Brandon Salabarría

Is your town haunted by strange apparitions, dastardly creatures, or terrifying monsters? Then it sounds like you need the help of four meddling kids and their dog! Scooby-Doo revolutionized cartoons by adding crime-solving to a mostly comedic genre. Every week, the amateur detectives of "Mystery Inc." would solve a mystery, unmasking a no-good villain pretending to be some sort of fantastical creature.

The gang was aided by Scooby, their cowardly yet lovable Great Dane. Although he preferred eating snacks over solving mysteries, he ultimately always helped his friends whenever they needed him. Fun fact: Did you know that Scooby’s name was inspired by a Frank Sinatra song?

5

The Flintstones

Image: Bekir Uğur

Did you know that our favorite prehistoric family was the very first animated series featured in a prime time slot? That goes to show how much America loved the Flintstones : Every week, millions of families turned to their TV screens to laugh away with Fred, Wilma, Barney, and Betty’s adventures.

Set in the fictional town of Bedrock, "The Flintstones" featured a rather imaginative depiction of the Stone Age, mixing prehistoric elements with modern issues. Perhaps most famously, the show depicted prehistoric versions of modern appliances, like an octopus dishwasher or a dinosaur-can opener.

6

The Jetsons

Image: Rock'n Roll Monkey

While in "The Flintstones" Hannah-Barbera showcased the adventures of a Prehistoric family, the iconic animation studio went in the opposite direction with " The Jetsons ": For this show, the studio asked the question "How would the typical Space Age American family be?"

This show follows the everyday life of the Jetson family, comprised of George, Jane, Judy, and Elroy Jetson. Just like "The Flintstones", the show is fondly remembered for reimagining everyday technology: It predicted video calls and automated helpers decades before the first iPhone was produced.

7

Tom & Jerry

Image: Teresa Jang

Who says rivals can’t make up a good duo? If anything, Tom and Jerry’s legacy was built in this constant and neverending bickering, resulting in hilarious and exciting confrontations that don’t usually end up good for this beloved tomcat.

Another animated treasure conceived by the minds of William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, Tom and Jerry made use of these two characters’ insane charisma: Although they were mostly silent, their expressions and resourcefulness truly made them unforgettable. Several "Tom & Jerry" shorts received Academy Awards, including the fan-favorite episode "The Cat Concerto."

8

Popeye

Image: thomas RICHARD

If Garfield made us love lasagna, then Popeye had the slightly more difficult mission of making kids enjoy eating their spinach. And yet, this iconic sailor made such a daunting task look easy by showcasing the Herculean strength this simple vegetable gave him.

Popeye made his big screen debut in 1933 after Betty Boop creator Max Fleischer adapted the character’s adventures into a series of shorts. Fleischer was the first to include Popeye’s love for spinach, turning it into the character’s most famous trait. Whenever he was in trouble, Popeye would turn to a can of spinach that would always give him the strength needed to save his beloved Olive Oyl from the hands of the villainous Brutus.

9

Yogi Bear

Image: Jessica Weiller

If you ever find yourself enjoying a gorgeous day in the beautiful (although fictional) "Jellystone Park", keep an eye on your picnic basket! Just a small lapse is all Yogi Bear (and his trusted companion, Boo-Boo Bear) need to take your delicious refreshments. Created by Hanna-Barbera in 1958, Yogi first appeared as a supporting character in "The Huckleberry Hound Show", but he soon found his way into the hearts of the American public.

Yogi was as charming as he was mischievous: He would often speak in rhyme and come up with elaborate plans that ultimately blew up on his face. Yogi was constantly evading Ranger Smith, the overworked park ranger tasked with keeping visitors' food safe from this beloved bear.

10

Looney Tunes

Image: Portuguese Gravity

We’ll end this article with a bit of a pun since this cartoon series is known for its send-off message " That’s all Folks! " Just like Mickey Mouse and Tom & Jerry, the Looney Tunes come straight from the Golden Age of American animation, and it truly shows: Not only are their cartoons insanely funny, but they have remained relevant and inspiring since their debut in the 1930s.

Looney Tunes introduced the world to iconic characters like Bugs Bunny, Porky Pig, Daffy Dug, Wile E. Coyote, and the Road Runner. Their charming personalities, wacky adventures, and quirky manners truly marked a turning point in the history of American cartoons.

1

Thelma from The Family Circus

Image: Angel Sanchez

Here’s a little bit of trivia: cartoonist Bil Keane didn’t just imagine Thelma—he sketched her straight from life, inspired by his own wife. Far from being a background character, she stands as an anchor in a house full of wild little adventurers. College-educated and quick on her feet, she is the quiet balance that keeps the comic’s playful family from tipping over.

Since its debut in 1960, fans of The Family Circus have seen in Thelma not just a mother, but the steady rhythm that turns chaos into charm. She reminds everyone that even in the middle of a circus, there’s always someone holding the tent poles steady.

2

Snoopy from Peanuts

Image: somecomputer

What if a simple old beagle could slip into the role of a daring fighter pilot or a famous novelist without ever leaving his doghouse? That’s the magic of Snoopy.

From the 1950s onward, Charles Schulz gave this iconic, innocent dog a wildly imaginative life, where a simple nap on the roof could turn into a trip across the skies. He rarely speaks, yet every tilt of his ear and twitch of his eyebrow says more than words ever could. Snoopy shows readers that the biggest adventures often happen in our heads, proving that silence can tell a story louder than any punchline.

3

Garfield

Image: Jim Davis, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Who would have guessed that a fat, sleepy cat introduced in 1978 would become one of the sharpest minds in comic strip history? Garfield never bothers chasing mice or protecting the house—he lets others do the hard work while he perfects the art of comfort.

Fueled by lasagna and armed with sarcasm, he turns laziness into a lifestyle. His famous dislike of Mondays isn’t just a joke—it’s a philosophy. Why suffer through the grind when you can nap through it? In his own sly way, Garfield teaches readers that brains sometimes triumph over brawn, especially when pasta is involved.

4

Calvin from Calvin and Hobbes

Image: Michał Turkiewicz

What happens when childhood curiosity meets mischievous behavior? Calvin happens. Bill Watterson’s rebellious and cynical six-year-old, born in the 1980s, can transform an ordinary backyard into a galaxy of adventures.

One moment, he’s a space explorer dodging aliens; the next, a philosopher debating life with a stuffed tiger. All his alter egos are playful but also surreal monuments of imagination. Beneath the pranks and wild schemes, Calvin reminds us that messy questions often lead to the brightest discoveries.

5

Wednesday from The Addams Family

Image: Jon Tyson

Imagine a child who never giggles at the obvious but instead tilts her head and asks the questions no one else dares. That’s Wednesday. When Charles Addams first sketched her in the 1930s, she wasn’t just another character in a gothic family—she was the sharp thinker in braids.

While her relatives reveled in the bizarre, Wednesday cuts straight to the harsh reality with calm precision. Her curiosity is fearless, her observations unflinching, and her wit so dry it makes readers smirk. In a household full of quirks, she is the quiet compass pointing toward reason.

6

Nancy Ritz from Nancy

Image: Tip Top Comics / United Features / Ernie Bushmiller, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Long before "less is more" became a fashion motto, Ernie Bushmiller’s Nancy was already proving the point. With just a few lines, Bushmiller built a character who could provoke laughs sharper than most elaborate gags. Nancy’s jokes landed fast, like little surprise jabs, and her clean, minimalist style made her humor feel universal. Decade after decade, her zingers have stayed as fresh as if they were written yesterday.

7

Popeye the Sailor Man from Thimble Theatre

Image: E. C. Segar, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Believe it or not, a cartoon sailor managed to change America’s dinner plates. When Popeye appeared in 1929, kids suddenly wanted to eat spinach, and sales of the leafy green soared by nearly a third.

With his anchor tattoos, squinty eye, and gravelly mumble, Popeye wasn’t exactly polished—he was tough, funny, and unforgettable. Every can of spinach he cracked open turned into instant muscle, proving that strength, humor, and even vegetables could be downright heroic.

8

Dick Tracy

Image: R Jangaard

Imagine picking up a newspaper in 1931 and spotting a hard-boiled detective with a futuristic radio strapped to his wrist. For readers of the day, it looked like pure science fiction. Chester Gould’s Dick Tracy wasn’t only solving crimes—he was predicting the kind of technology that wouldn’t appear in real life for decades.

Sharp as a tack, with a no-nonsense style, Tracy blends American gothic with futuristic flair, making every strip feel like a peek into tomorrow’s world.

9

Dennis from Dennis the Menace

Image: Alexandra_Koch

On the surface, Dennis seems like every parent’s headache: a freckle-faced kid with a knack for trouble. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find a sharp mind hiding behind that mischievous grin.

Since the 1950s, his pranks have been less about chaos and more about clever planning and outsmarting the grown-ups. While Mr. Wilson might sigh in defeat, readers can’t help but laugh, knowing Dennis exposes truths adults often tiptoe around. Mischief is his tool; curiosity is his true engine.

10

Archie Andrews from Archie Comics

Image: Al Fagaly, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Picture a small town where jukeboxes hum, soda fountains buzz, and Friday night dances are packed with teenagers. That’s the world Archie Andrews introduces us to. With his bright red hair and everyday charm, Archie isn’t a superhero—he’s the kid next door.

Yet, he manages to shine thanks to his relatable stumbles, from juggling homework to choosing between Betty’s sweetness and Veronica’s sparkle. His stories are funny snapshots of small-town America, frozen in time like a favorite old record.

11

Mooch and Earl from MUTTS

Image: PNW Production

At first glance, they’re just a cat and a dog. But look closer, and Mooch and Earl are small philosophers wrapped in fur. Patrick McDonnell gave Mooch his playful "Yesh" and Earl his gentle kindness, creating a duo that speaks volumes in just a few words.

MUTTS isn’t about big adventures, it’s about simple, tender moments: a nap in the sun, a wagging tail, a shared silence that feels like music. Through their quirks and quiet humor, Mooch and Earl remind readers that wisdom often comes from uncomplicated friendship.

12

Private Carl James "Beetle" Bailey from Beetle Bailey

Image: Mort Walker, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

When Mort Walker introduced Private "Beetle" Bailey in 1950, he proved that not every comic hero needs ambition—sometimes a nap is enough. Beetle isn’t just lazy; he turns slacking into a survival skill. While others march, plan, or panic, Beetle drifts away with a smirk, always finding the shortest route around hard work.

Although Camp Swampy is a tough setting, the punchline is clear: Beetle’s effortless way of avoiding obligations is almost genius. Somehow, doing nothing becomes his greatest talent.