Judge — January 18, 1896 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Please Push Me" - Judge Magazine, January 18, 1896 This political cartoon depicts a caricatured figure (likely representing a political or national leader, based on the exaggerated facial features and formal dress) sitting in a sleigh labeled "BUNK," asking to be pushed. The winter/snowy setting and Russian Orthodox church in the background suggest this references Russia or Russian affairs. The satire appears to mock either Russian political instability or a leader's dependence on external pressure to act. The phrase "Please push me" suggests the figure lacks independent agency or initiative, requiring outside force to move forward—a critique of either weak leadership or reluctance to pursue certain policies. The elaborate costume and caricature style were typical of Judge's political commentary from this era.