A complete issue · 16 pages · 1885
Judge — August 15, 1885
# Analysis of Judge Magazine Cartoon, August 15, 1885 This political cartoon depicts a police officer (left) confronting a large dog wearing a "Police Dog" collar beside a delivery wagon. The title "A Terror That He Doesn't Seem to Tackle" suggests ironic criticism of law enforcement. The cartoon appears to satirize police ineffectiveness or selective enforcement—the officer confronts the dog while ignoring threats from the wagon above (a figure wielding what appears to be a weapon or club). The satire likely critiques New York City police for pursuing minor infractions (represented by the harmless dog) while neglecting serious crimes or dangers. The specific context remains unclear without additional historical documentation about August 1885 New York City policing scandals or crime concerns.
# Analysis: Judge Magazine Page - Political Satire circa 1880s-1890s This page contains multiple political editorials attacking the Cleveland administration and Democratic Party. **"Shoot Him on the Spot"** criticizes the government's failure to suppress Mormon polygamy in Utah for thirty years, sarcastically asking why the U.S. is "afraid" of this religious minority. **"Sold! A Democratic Disgruntled Dirge"** mocks Democratic voters' disappointment with Cleveland's policies, using repetition of "sold!" to suggest betrayal of party promises. **"A Fell Design"** attacks financiers and bankers allegedly orchestrating a monetary contraction scheme using gold to consolidate wealth and control. References to "Dives" (biblical rich man) and Col. Ingersoll add moral weight. **"Extermination by Contract"** sarcastically proposes solving the "Indian problem" by exploiting contractors' greed—suggesting the government corrupt itself rather than address indigenous peoples humanely. It's bitterly ironic commentary on how profit motives perpetuate systemic failures. The tone is consistently partisan Republican critique of Democratic governance.
