A complete issue · 17 pages · 1884
Judge — October 11, 1884
# The Judge, October 11, 1884 This is a political cartoon from the 1884 U.S. presidential election period. The main illustration depicts a figure labeled "Democratic Party" holding what appears to be a lamp or vessel, with ghostly or demonic figures emerging behind him. The caption reads: "While the lamp holds out to burn, the vilest sinner may return"—a religious reference suggesting redemption is possible. The N.B. (nota bene) note underneath states the vessel "isn't a lamp, and it don't look much like holding out," implying the Democratic Party's promises of reform are hollow or failing. The cartoon satirizes Democratic claims of moral renewal, suggesting their stated commitments lack substance. The dark, ominous imagery reinforces skepticism about Democratic credibility during this election year.
# The Judge, Page 2: Political Commentary This page contains two satirical pieces attacking Democratic leadership during what appears to be the 1884 presidential campaign. **"Get in There, and Cover Up!"** is the main cartoon, using the metaphor of a ghost to criticize Charles A. Dana (editor of the Sun newspaper) for attempting to suppress the political resurrection of Thomas A. Hendricks, the late Vice President who had died eight years prior. The piece sarcastically suggests Dana is literally trying to keep Hendricks' corpse buried rather than allow Democratic revival of his legacy or memory in current politics. **"Democracy's Last Error"** criticizes Democratic leaders for nominating Grover Cleveland, arguing the party made a fatal blunder. It suggests Cleveland's nomination was a mistake that disaffected Democrats cannot repair—implying internal party damage that will cost them the election. The satire relies on readers' familiarity with recent Democratic scandals and leadership disputes. Both pieces mock Democratic dysfunction using dark, grotesque imagery (ghosts, corpses, graveyards) to suggest the party is spiritually dead or dying.
