Judge, 1890-04-05 · page 8 of 17
Judge — April 5, 1890 — page 8: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This appears to be a satirical cartoon from *Judge* magazine showing a military figure in formal Prussian or German-style uniform with decorations standing beside a smaller uniformed figure (likely representing a subordinate or colonial ruler). Behind them stands an allegorical female figure—possibly representing a nation or empire—holding symbols of authority. The caption reads "GOING I!" (incomplete), and the artist's signature appears to be "Gillam." The satire likely critiques imperial military ambition or German expansionism, a common theme in American political cartoons of the late 19th/early 20th century. The juxtaposition of the commanding officer with the smaller figure suggests commentary on power dynamics or subordination within empires. Without the complete caption or publication date, the specific historical event remains unclear.