BC Comic Strips by Johnny Hart are a timeless fusion of primitive humor, modern wit, and philosophical depth all wrapped in the charm of the Stone Age. First launched in 1958, B.C. was the brainchild of Johnny Hart, who took a daring leap by combining caveman characters with sharp, contemporary commentary. With its minimalist style and satirical edge, the strip evolved into one of the longest-running and most beloved comics in newspaper history.
The comic follows a quirky tribe of cavemen and creatures navigating life’s absurdities in prehistoric times.Whether poking fun at social norms, highlighting the quirks of human nature, or simply making us laugh with a well-placed boulder, these comics remain relevant and refreshingly honest. Below are 10 classic strips that showcase exactly why BC is a prehistoric icon.
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1. Fashion-Forward Shells
When a turtle questions a caterpillar’s flashy colors, he learns it’s to keep predators away. Inspired, the turtle dons a flashy, flame-painted shell — “If you’re going to do it, do it right.” This strip humorously combines natural instincts with a modern fashion twist. It’s a perfect example of BC’s absurd yet clever logic, turning a prehistoric creature into a stylish, overconfident diva of survival.
2. Testosterone in Action
A caveman attempts a ridiculous stunt on a unicycle — jumping through fire, over a dinosaur — while two spectators calmly remark, “Say what you will… testosterone is entertaining.” This comic perfectly captures the bold, reckless side of human behavior. It’s a great laugh at masculinity and its extreme lengths for attention, all delivered in the classic deadpan BC tone.
3. Rock Art Revolution
A hippie caveman enthusiastically paints a flower on a rock, declaring it the best it’s ever looked. Another caveman walks by and mutters, “Stupid hippies.” A brilliant commentary on artistic expression, rebellion, and generational gaps — this strip brings timeless satire to Stone Age turf. Hart’s ability to reflect modern attitudes in ancient settings is what makes BC so fun.
4. Wiley’s Poem of Gratitude
Wiley sits under a tree and pens a poem thanking those who serve, honoring them with quiet reflection. “For them I sit here free.” It’s one of BC’s more heartfelt and contemplative moments. This poetic piece shows the comic’s rare ability to step away from gags and touch something deeper — making it as meaningful as it is memorable.
5. Turtle Traffic Jam
A turtle is berated by another creature yelling, “Get in gear! Drive it or park it!” Meanwhile, a bird calmly rides the turtle, enjoying the slow pace. “You could go around him,” one says. “Chill. I’m enjoying this,” the other replies. The humor here lies in its simplicity — and its clever jab at impatience in a world always in a rush.
6. New Year’s Realism
Peter reflects at the shore: “We usher in the new year with good intentions…” before ending with, “We drop a giant ball and hope for the best.” This strip brilliantly captures the comical futility of New Year’s resolutions. In true BC fashion, a wise observation is boiled down to a simple, sarcastic truth — all with a prehistoric twist.
7. Beware the Trund
A caveman is puzzled by signs that say “Beware of the Trund.” He stands beneath one — and is instantly hit in the head by a flying object labeled “Trund.” Classic slapstick meets clever wordplay here, as BC plays with the idea of warning signs and human obliviousness. It’s visual comedy that lands hard — literally.
8. A Heavenly Father’s Day
Wiley sits under a tree reflecting on fatherhood — or the lack thereof — and ends the poem by reminding readers that there’s always one father figure “on duty… up there.” It’s a spiritual, comforting comic that touches on loss, faith, and love. Moments like these show how BC moves beyond jokes to offer wisdom and reflection.
9. Priorities: Oil vs. Water
A caveman celebrates discovering oil. His peer, unamused and parched, says, “Call me when you find water.” This comic hilariously critiques humanity’s skewed priorities — relevant in both prehistoric and modern times. Hart’s take is simple but powerful: survival should always trump status or greed. Timeless and sharp.
10. Social Cliff Notes
A caveman walks past a series of labeled cliffs: “Lovers’ Leap,” “Friendship’s Staircase,” “Acquaintance’s Slight Decline,” and finally “I Don’t Even Know You Sidewalk.” It’s a perfect metaphor for relationship levels — taken literally. This comic plays with labels and expectations, making light of how we categorize connections in absurdly formal ways.
Final Thoughts
BC Comic Strips by Johnny Hart continue to thrive because they blend wit, satire, and soul in a way that’s both ancient and totally modern. With characters as timeless as their messages, BC remains one of the most unique and insightful comic strips ever created.
Find more at JohnHartStudios.com and laugh along with fresh picks at TheHumorSide.com.
