The iconographic analysis of hundreds of satirical drawings published in the Portuguese press during the 19th century showed that, in certain circumstances and under a set of conditions, the caricature is an essential document for knowledge of the History of Theatre. In the 19th century, cartoons were characterized by being very detailed. There are thousands of cartoons, with an immediate connection to the shows and events experienced by the caricaturists, which reveal several new details and allow us to visualize certain aspects, linked (for example) to the performance that written words have difficulty describing. Also the analysis of many political caricatures in the press, which served as a throwing weapon in international conflicts, allows us to delve deeper into aspects related to the identity of certain countries; allows us to perceive the impact they had in critical moments; and assess the role that satire played (and is likely to play) in the development and/or broadening of certain currents of public opinion.