Judge — May 25, 1889 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This engraving satirizes the **Oklahoma Land Rush** (likely 1889 or a subsequent run). The caption states: "The Oklahoma boomers are returning in disappointed droves from the...end of" The cartoon depicts settlers returning from Oklahoma in defeat, with mountainous terrain visible in the background and what appears to be a capitol building in the valley. The figures show frustrated, armed men trudging back—a stark contrast to the optimistic rush to claim free land that had driven them westward. The satire mocks the failed expectations of "boomers" who sought fortune in Oklahoma Territory. Rather than striking it rich, they're shown dejected and weaponless (surrendered arms), suggesting either conflict with Native Americans or simply the harsh reality that free land didn't guarantee prosperity. Judge uses this as social commentary on American expansionism and the gap between frontier mythology and actual experience.