José Guadalupe Posada is known for his political lithographs criticizing the dictatorship of Porfirio Diaz in Mexico. His prints were circulated among the lower classes, primarily by publishers in Aguascalientes.

Posada used calaveras, which is Spanish for "skulls," as his figures. He dressed them to represent the wealthy, Indigenous, and working populations. The scenes provided social and political commentary on contemporary happenings. Today Posada's calaveras are commonly associated with sugar skulls used in Día de Muertos celebrations.

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