The Wasp — 1896 — page 264: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon critiques protectionist trade policy, specifically tariffs designed to shield American industries. Two workers construct a platform labeled "Protection to American Industries" while gathering materials marked "Protection" and "Gold Nails." The caption quotes a "Farmer Hayseeded" character warning that building this protective platform requires sacrificing domestic timber—meaning American farmers and producers must bear the cost through higher prices and lost markets. The cartoon's point: protectionist tariffs, intended to help American manufacturing, actually burden American producers (particularly farmers) who must supply materials and resources. The American flag above suggests this policy contradicts national interests. The satire mocks the contradiction between stated protective goals and actual economic harm to ordinary producers.