Puck — May 1877 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This Puck cartoon satirizes American reverence for the Roman Catholic Church, depicted as "Infallibility" — referencing the Catholic doctrine of papal infallibility (proclaimed officially in 1870). The image shows Americans of various classes paying homage to a Roman altar labeled "CHARITY begins at ROME." Armed soldiers or guards surround the scene, suggesting religious institutional power. The satire criticizes how American donations and deference flow toward Rome/the Vatican rather than benefiting domestic American causes. The "infallibility" reference suggests Puck viewed Catholic authority claims as arrogant and problematic. The cartoon reflects 19th-century American anti-Catholic sentiment, when many Protestants viewed the Vatican's influence over American Catholics with suspicion and resentment.