Judge — March 16, 1889 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon commemorates the conclusion of President Grover Cleveland's first Democratic administration (1885-1889). The elderly male figure, likely representing Cleveland or a Democratic leader, presents a medal inscribed "Democracy" to a seated female figure representing the nation or Democratic Party. The caption's sarcastic tone—suggesting a "leather medal" commemorates "four years administration of the Democracy"—mocks the Democratic record as unworthy of genuine honor. The medal itself appears tarnished or damaged, reinforcing the critique. The cartoon's biting humor suggests Judge's Republican editors viewed Cleveland's presidency as failed or damaging to the nation, warranting only mockery rather than respect as his term ended.