A complete issue · 16 pages · 1888
Judge — November 10, 1888
# "The Cruel War Is Over" This November 1888 *Judge* cartoon depicts a reconciliation between two figures representing warring parties. The large central figure wearing British regalia appears to represent Britain or a British interest, while the military figure on the right likely represents another nation or political faction. The smaller figure between them, labeled "Judge," mediates their dispute. The caption—"Well, boys, it has been a tough fight. Shake hands. Both couldn't win"—suggests satirical commentary on a concluded conflict where neither side achieved total victory. Without identifying the specific 1888 dispute, the cartoon's point appears to be mockery of an exhausting stalemate and the necessity of accepting compromise rather than decisive triumph. The comic tone undercuts the supposed nobility of the settlement.
# "Making the Best of a Bad Bargain" The cartoon depicts two figures in what appears to be a clothing transaction, with one character labeled as "Nuggy" negotiating with another. The dialogue suggests someone reluctant about a poor trade—"Taint over klivensteen, Mike, but I had t' take it" / "leave it" coat. The satire likely critiques either consumer fraud, dishonest commercial dealings, or perhaps political compromise presented as necessary evil. The phrase "making the best of a bad bargain" suggests accepting an unfavorable situation as inevitable. Without clearer identification of the specific figures or contemporary context, the exact political reference remains unclear, though the overall tone mocks accepting unsatisfactory outcomes in commercial or political negotiations.
# Analysis of Judge Magazine Page 69 This page contains several satirical pieces targeting American political figures and social issues circa the 1880s: **"Why?"** attacks Republican gentlemen (including Senator Edmunds) for silence during a recent campaign, questioning their pride and leadership. **"William's Hat"** mocks William M. Evarts (prominent Republican politician/lawyer) for absent-mindedly taking another man's hat, attributing his confusion to campaign exhaustion. The reference to "Grover" likely means President Grover Cleveland. **Other short pieces** include domestic humor about Irish servants, marriage skepticism, and observations about the Kaiser and Mormons. The cartoons' sketched style and dialect humor ("m'dear," "nossin'") typify Judge's satirical approach. The overall tone reflects post-campaign political disappointment and social commentary common to 1880s American satire magazines.
