Judge — June 30, 1900 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Political Cartoon Analysis: "Bryan, The American 'Boxer'" This 1900 Judge magazine cover depicts **William Jennings Bryan**, the Democratic presidential candidate, as a demonic "boxer" wielding a sword labeled "Political Fanaticism." The cartoon satirizes Bryan as a dangerous radical threatening American prosperity. The figure at left appears to represent a concerned voter or America itself, protecting documents labeled "The American Policy" and "Anti-Chinese" legislation. Below, fallen figures labeled with economic concerns lie defeated. The satire argues that Bryan's political extremism—likely referring to his populist policies and anti-establishment positions—poses an existential threat to American economic stability and established policies. The "boxer" metaphor suggests aggressive, reckless combat rather than reasoned governance.