Judge — April 18, 1885 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This 1885 Judge cartoon satirizes American foreign policy through caricature. A well-dressed American businessman (top hat, formal coat) confronts a small goat labeled "Randleton From Cincinnati"—likely referencing a specific diplomat or business figure. A threatening, demonic figure looms in the shadows above, suggesting malevolent foreign forces or competitors. The caption asks: "Is this apt to conciliate Foreign 'Biz?'" The satire mocks the administration's approach to international commerce and diplomacy, suggesting their methods are clumsy or counterproductive. The goat may represent an American business interest being sacrificed or mishandled. The cartoon criticizes how political leadership conducts foreign relations, implying their "business administration" actually alienates rather than cultivates foreign trade relationships.