The Wasp — 1896 — page 751: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

The main cartoon depicts "Steam Beer Politics"—a figure representing steam beer (a San Francisco specialty) balanced precariously on a barrel labeled "politics." The illustration satirizes local political instability and incompetence. The text criticizes Rain-in-the-Face (a political candidate) as unqualified for judgeship, noting he's been "practicing law" only through uncertain methods. The piece mocks his supporters' logic using absurdist analogies about school children. The page also attacks Colonel John O'Byrne, an Irish-American political agitator and paid speaker for the Democratic party in California, suggesting he'll become a "Home Rule" advocate. Overall, this is **satirical political commentary** on San Francisco municipal politics, targeting specific candidates and party operatives as incompetent or corrupt.