Judge — November 17, 1883 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of Judge Magazine, November 17, 1883 The main cartoon depicts **General Sherman addressing General Sheridan** during what appears to be a military encampment, with the caption: "Our Army is not much to look at; but such as I have give I to thee." This references the **post-Civil War U.S. Army** and its condition in the 1880s. Sherman and Sheridan were prominent Union generals. The satire likely critiques the state of the American military during peacetime—suggesting it was poorly maintained or underfunded despite these generals' prominence. The exaggerated caricatures and theatrical poses amplify the satirical tone, mocking either military leadership or Congressional neglect of armed forces readiness during this period of relative peace following Reconstruction.