Judge — August 27, 1887 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Political Cartoon Analysis: "Death of Reform and End of a Roaring Farce" This August 27, 1887 *Judge* cartoon satirizes the failure of reform efforts, likely during the Cleveland administration (referenced in the caption quote about "Second Term"). The central figure appears to be a clergy member or reform advocate in white robes, standing over a prone body—representing reform itself "dead." The architectural setting suggests an official building, possibly a courthouse or government chamber. The cartoon's message: reform movements that initially seemed vigorous have collapsed into futility. The "roaring farce" likely refers to political theater surrounding reform promises that proved hollow in practice. Without more specific historical context about 1887 reform debates, the exact target remains unclear, though the image powerfully depicts disillusionment with reform's effectiveness.