Puck — March 12, 1879 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "The Silly Congressional Ostrich" This March 12, 1879 *Puck* cartoon satirizes Congress's avoidance of controversial issues. The ostrich—a creature legendary for hiding its head in sand when threatened—represents Congress burying its head while facing problems labeled "River and Harbor Bill," "Inflation," and "Pension." The caption states the ostrich "thinks if it hides its head it hides everything," mocking Congressional evasion tactics. The sun labeled "Independent Press" shines above, suggesting the media exposes what lawmakers ignore. This appears critical of Congress's reluctance to address major fiscal and spending issues of the post-Civil War era—particularly debates over federal spending on infrastructure, currency policy, and veterans' benefits—by simply avoiding substantive action or debate.