A complete issue · 16 pages · 1889
Judge — April 20, 1889
# Political Cartoon Analysis: "Who Will Boss the Washington Centennial?" (April 20, 1889) This cartoon satirizes rivalry over control of Washington D.C.'s centennial celebration (commemorating the city's 100th anniversary). Two figures representing New York political factions confront each other on a street decorated with centennial banners. The "400" (New York's wealthy social elite) and the "N.Y. Alderman" (representing common political machine operators) argue about who will "boss" the event. The Alderman boasts he'll "bust up th' whole show" and assert American—not English—dominance. The satire mocks New York's class divisions and political infighting, suggesting both factions want to control the prestigious national celebration. The caricatures use period ethnic stereotyping typical of Judge magazine's satirical style.