Grigori Tõnisson, better known as Gori, was born in 1894 in Pärnu, Estonia. He gained prominence as a cartoonist, contributing his sharp wit to various Estonian publications such as Leek, Sipelgas, and Meie Mats. His career flourished between 1920 and 1938, during which he worked for the newspaper Waba Maa under the pseudonym Vello Agor. Known for over 40,000 works, Gori's style emerged during World War I, characterized by a critical stance against ignorance, greed, and foolishness.

Despite his artistic success, Gori's life was marred by political turmoil, as both the German and Soviet occupying powers exploited his talents for propaganda purposes. In 1941, he was arrested by the German authorities on the grounds of mocking Adolf Hitler and the German people. His situation worsened as his son was also detained to pressure him. Gori was forced to create caricatures against the Soviet Union and Joseph Stalin, reflecting the vulnerable position of artists under oppressive regimes.

Gori's legacy is significant, not just for his artistry but also for his resistance against political oppression through his work. The societal impacts of his cartoons resonate even today, highlighting the power of caricature as a tool for social commentary and criticism. His life story illustrates how creativity can be co-opted by political forces, yet it also showcases the resilience of the human spirit in the face of persecution.