Judge — November 15, 1902 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This November 1902 *Judge* cartoon addresses **corporate monopolies ("trusts")**, a major political issue of the Progressive Era. Uncle Sam (representing the U.S. government) advises consumers to withdraw patronage from a greedy corporate monster to kill it without legislation. The cartoon depicts a demon-like figure labeled "MONOPOLY" wearing a top hat, surrounded by small dealers being crushed. Signs reference **tobacco and cigar trusts**—specific industries notorious for monopolistic practices. The smaller businessmen and consumers below hold a petition to Congress, requesting government intervention. The satirical message: citizens possess economic power; by boycotting monopolies, they can force change without waiting for Congress to act. This reflects contemporary public frustration with concentrated corporate power and debate over whether legislation or consumer action should combat trusts.