A complete issue · 16 pages · 1889
Judge — August 31, 1889
# "The Jealous Monkey" - Judge Magazine, August 31, 1889 This cartoon depicts two anthropomorphized monkeys in human clothing engaged in what appears to be a confrontation or dispute. The figure on the left wears a top hat and formal attire, while the one on the right wears a pointed hat and checkered clothing. Both display exaggerated facial features typical of 19th-century satirical art. The title "The Jealous Monkey" suggests this illustrates jealousy or rivalry between two figures, likely representing contemporary political or social rivals. Without additional context about 1889 events, the specific individuals remain unclear, though the formal dress and confrontational posture indicate this comments on prominent public figures of the period. The anthropomorphic depiction as monkeys was a common satirical technique to mock or demean subjects.
# "Not Entirely Easy" Cartoon Analysis This cartoon depicts an immigration scene at what appears to be a tenement or boarding house. Two figures (likely Irish immigrants based on period stereotyping) discuss their situation, with dialogue about "bigges' snap" and soap. The accompanying article "The Immigrant as a Voter" expresses ambivalence about immigrants: praising their work ethic and homesickness for native lands, but expressing concern about their political influence and integration into American society. The piece warns that immigrant populations are "vastly dissimilar" to native Americans and questions whether reinforcing foreign customs serves the nation's interests. The cartoon's title suggests immigration assimilation itself is "not entirely easy"—capturing the period's anxieties about whether newcomers could successfully adapt to American life, a common theme in late 19th/early 20th-century satirical journalism.
