Puck — May 22, 1878 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political satire depicts a cherub or cupid figure choosing between two options, paralleling the classical myth where Paris judged which goddess deserved a prize. Here, the figure holds a "Popular Vote" and must choose between the "Democratic Party" (represented by a scroll of "Good Promises") offered by a figure on the right. The cartoon critiques the Democratic Party's campaign strategy, suggesting their electoral appeal rests on mere promises rather than substantive accomplishments. The classical reference frames the choice as a fateful decision comparable to mythology's most consequential judgment. The satire implies voters are being seduced by empty rhetoric rather than genuine policy—a commentary on campaign dishonesty common in Gilded Age American politics.