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

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of Judge Magazine Cartoon (October 1, 1904) This political cartoon satirizes the Democratic Party's 1904 election strategy regarding farmers. The tall figure appears to represent the Democratic Party or its candidate, holding a banner reading "VERMONT'S REPUBLICAN SURPLUS 30 GOOD, PLURALITY 30,000." A caricatured farmer (left) looks confused or skeptical, examining bags labeled "Cotton Crops," "Dollar," and "Wheat"—representing agricultural commodities. The caption reads "The Democratic Surprise-Party," with the farmer asking, "Yes, I am goin' figure in this campaign! What?" The satire mocks Democratic attempts to appeal to farmers by promising economic benefits, suggesting farmers find the party's agricultural policy proposals unconvincing or contradictory. The Vermont reference indicates Republican electoral strength in farming regions.