Judge — October 13, 1888 — page 16: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This Judge page satirizes President Grover Cleveland (shown repeatedly in various scenarios) by comparing his actions to those of a soldier or military leader. The captions and scenes suggest Cleveland's policies—particularly regarding tariffs and trade—are portrayed as destructive to American industry and workers. The recurring figure "Whilst Cleveland" appears attempting various harmful actions: fighting for protectionism, ruining his own reputation, and standing between workmen and free trade. The bottom caption, "He stands between the workman and Free Trade," indicates the cartoon criticizes Cleveland for blocking free trade policies that the cartoonist believed would benefit workers. The quote "Who is Harrison anyway?" references a political rival, likely William Henry Harrison or Benjamin Harrison, suggesting Cleveland's opponents offered better alternatives. The overall message attacks Cleveland's economic policies as harmful to American labor and industry.