Judge — February 11, 1893 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of Judge Magazine Cartoon, February 11, 1893 This cartoon satirizes the incoming administration's approach to political appointments. The central figure, a portly businessman, stands on a fierce tiger labeled "TAMMANY" (the corrupt Democratic political machine in New York City). The left panel quotes Der Croker (likely Richard Croker, Tammany Hall boss), claiming "POLITICIANS MAKE BETTER CITY OFFICIALS THAN BUSINESS MEN." The right panel counters that the next administration will be a "BUSINESS MEN'S ADMINISTRATION" with business preference in appointments—directly contradicting Croker's position. The tiger doormat represents Tammany Hall being literally walked upon and subordinated under the new business-focused administration, mocking the old political establishment's loss of power.