Puck — May 1877 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Spoiling Their Little Game" This May 1877 *Puck* cartoon satirizes Congress during a recess period. Two well-dressed men stand outside the Capitol building, which displays a sign reading "NO SESSION OF CONGRESS UNTIL October 15." The figures appear to be political operatives or lobbyists carrying newspapers and documents, seemingly frustrated by Congress's absence. The title "Spoiling Their Little Game" suggests the cartoon mocks those who benefit from legislative inactivity—likely corrupt interests, special pleaders, or machine politicians who exploit Congress when in session. The satire implies that Congress's recess inadvertently prevents certain schemes or corrupt dealings from proceeding. The cartoon critiques both institutional dysfunction and the self-interested actors who normally manipulate the legislative process.