Puck — November 19, 1879 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Puck Magazine, November 19, 1879 The main cartoon depicts **Lady Liberty** (the female figure holding the Constitution) protecting frightened citizens and children from turbulent waters labeled "anarchy." Creatures emerge from the sea, likely representing threats to social order. The satire's point: government must shield Americans from dangerous forces—possibly anarchism, labor unrest, or immigration-related chaos that worried the period. The banner "Do Not Fear, We'll Protect You!" presents this as reassurance, though Puck's satirical intent appears ambiguous: it may mock either government overreach in security or public hysteria about threats. The accompanying news items reference priest scandals and religious disputes, typical of Puck's coverage mixing politics with social commentary.