Judge — August 27, 1904 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Political Cartoon Analysis: "Pliable" This Judge magazine cartoon from August 27, 1904 depicts a political figure labeled "Parker" being molded like clay by a glazier (glassworker). The caption reads: "He would be as putty in the glazier's hands." **Context:** This appears to reference Alton B. Parker, the 1904 Democratic presidential candidate. The "Republican Anti-Trust" banner and references to "Political Blasts" and "Trust" suggest the cartoon critiques Parker as easily manipulated by Republican interests on corporate trust issues—major political concerns of the Progressive Era. The satire implies Parker lacks backbone or firm convictions, making him malleable to opposing forces rather than an independent leader. The craftsman-like imagery emphasizes his passivity.