The Wasp — 1896 — page 617: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page features editorial commentary on California politics circa early 1900s. The main cartoon depicts "Steam Beer Politics"—a figure emerging from a beer barrel, satirizing what the text calls the "real aim and object of the Civic Federation." The text critiques **Governor Adolph of Illinois** (likely misspelling), attacking his advocacy for state control over railroads and silver mines. The satire argues his positions contradict free-market principles while benefiting certain interests. The piece also mocks the **Socialist Labor Party's** municipal campaign strategy, comparing their political organizing to herding sheep. References to "Herr Adolph" and criticisms of various political factions suggest broader critique of turn-of-century progressive and socialist political movements in California. The remaining content is primarily advertisements for tailoring services and electrical engineering firms.