Judge — July 26, 1913 — page 3: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "The Star Performer of the Chautauqua Circuit" This political cartoon from *Judge* magazine satirizes a figure (likely a political candidate or speaker) who tours the Chautauqua Circuit—a popular American lecture and entertainment circuit of the early 20th century. The bird-like creature holds signs reading "LECTURE TOURS" and "PRESIDENCY—WANT IT," suggesting someone using speaking engagements to build political ambition or campaign for office. The caricature appears mocking: the figure is depicted as grotesque and bird-like, implying the subject is performative, artificially constructed, or untrustworthy. The subtitle's reference to a notice "on the office-door of the Secretary of State: 'Back in Six Weeks'" suggests the person is frequently absent from official duties while pursuing lecture tours. The satire critiques using public speaking circuits for political self-promotion rather than serious governance.