Judge — February 18, 1888 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of "The Invented Ogre of the Democratic Press" This **Judge** magazine cover from February 18, 1888 satirizes Democratic newspaper editors. The central demonic figure—portrayed with horns and wielding a printing press—represents the caricatured "Democratic Editor." The caption identifies two characters: the editor claims he has "his fingers in every pie, and his 'fine hand' is seen everywhere," while "Citizen Blade" responds "Though gone, not forgotten." The surrounding documents labeled "signed and countersigned diplomatic editions" suggest accusations that Democratic papers manipulate political narratives through selective reporting or propaganda. The cartoon attacks the perceived influence and deceptive practices of Democratic-leaning newspapers, portraying them as malevolent forces shaping public opinion. This reflects late-19th-century partisan tensions over press power and credibility.