A complete issue · 16 pages · 1889
Judge — January 12, 1889
# Political Cartoon Analysis: "His Own Boss" (Judge, January 12, 1889) This cartoon satirizes Republican leadership struggles during the early Harrison administration. The caption's dialogue—Republican leaders asking "Which one of us do you want to drive the elephant?" with Harrison responding "I'll do all the driving myself"—depicts tension over who controls the party. The elephant represents the Republican Party. Multiple caricatured figures (likely prominent Republicans) crowd atop it, suggesting internal power struggles and competing interests within the GOP leadership. Harrison's assertion that he'll "do all the driving" indicates his determination to lead independently rather than be controlled by party bosses or factions. The satire targets Republican infighting and questions Harrison's ability to manage competing party interests effectively during his presidency.
# "Birds of a Feather" Cartoon Analysis This cartoon depicts two men in conversation, labeled "Birds of a Feather." Based on the surrounding text snippets, the satire appears to address political corruption or questionable dealings during the Harrison administration (referenced in multiple items on the page). The cartoon likely mocks collusion between political figures—one appears to be a politician or officeholder, the other possibly a businessman or lobbyist. The "birds of a feather" metaphor suggests they're equally culpable partners in unsavory activity. The dialogue ("Excuse me, sh—") indicates one warning the other to be discreet. Without clearer identification of the specific figures or the exact historical event, the precise target remains unclear, but the satire condemns corrupt relationships between political and business interests.
