Puck — July 3, 1878 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This Puck cartoon depicts a allegorical battle scene. A figure representing "Communism" (labeled on the flag) appears as a reptilian creature attacking a woman, likely representing Liberty or a democratic ideal. Armed figures—appearing to be soldiers or defenders—stand ready to combat the threat. The caption references "Tramps, Communists and Politicians—these three classes are aptly grouped together" (visible at bottom), suggesting the cartoonist equated communism with social disorder and undesirable elements. This reflects late 19th or early 20th-century American anti-communist and anti-radical sentiment, when communism and anarchism were viewed as existential threats to democratic institutions. The imagery portrays communism as a monstrous, dangerous force requiring military defense against civilization itself.