A complete issue · 18 pages · 1879
Puck — November 12, 1879
# Puck Magazine, November 12, 1879 This political cartoon satirizes what appears to be a power struggle involving Republican political figures of the 1879 era. The caption reads "And He Marked Him for His Own," attributed to figures named Hayes, Sherman, Conkling, and Kelly. The central caricatured figure with a prominent nose appears to be the target of manipulation by surrounding politicians. The "Governor's House" sign and "A.B. Cornell" reference suggest this involves New York state politics and possibly Cornell's governorship. The satire depicts backroom political maneuvering—one figure is literally "marked" or claimed by more powerful politicians through corrupt dealing. The goblin-like creatures and theatrical poses emphasize the underhanded nature of the political patronage system being ridiculed.
# Puck Magazine Page Analysis The main cartoon "What to Do with Him" presents a satirical poem about Samuel Tilden, the Democratic presidential candidate in 1880. The illustration shows a gallows with Tilden's bones hanging from it. The poem mocks Tilden's political failures and suggests he's politically "dead" — his candidacy rejected, his influence finished. References to "dodging his taxes" and "caught in it" allude to scandals surrounding him. The satire suggests Republicans should abandon him entirely rather than attempt political revival. The accompanying text and "Moral" advise Republicans to protect their electoral advantage before the election rather than leaving victory to chance. This reflects the intense partisan rhetoric of the 1880 campaign period.
# "Our Governor" - Puck Magazine Commentary The right column satirizes the election of a new New York governor, likely Alonzo B. Cornell. The text attacks Cornell's character, claiming he's supported by political operative John Kelly and politician John Sherman. The satire mocks Cornell's reputation for: - Making "the greatest effort of his life" appear effortless - Building an "anticipatory reputation on various fanciful foreclosures of future greatness" - Operating on a "strictly cash basis" focused on patronage rather than principle The accompanying crude caricature—labeled "Puck's Patent Circular Butler"—visually reinforces the mockery. The satirist questions whether such a man, built on political calculation rather merit, deserves the governorship. The piece exemplifies Puck's role exposing political corruption and machine politics in Gilded Age New York.
