The Wasp — 1896 — page 756: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon depicts Uncle Sam as a weary, disheveled figure emerging from the "Donkey Saloon" (labeled "For Bunco Men"). The caricature shows him looking depleted, carrying what appears to be an empty or depleted bag, suggesting financial loss or depletion. "Bunco" refers to confidence schemes or swindles. The cartoon satirizes that Uncle Sam has been duped or financially exploited—likely by corrupt politicians, speculators, or business interests operating establishments like the saloon. The donkey reference suggests foolishness. The visible price signs (showing price increases from 15¢ to 20¢ for "GARS") reinforce themes of inflation or price gouging. This appears to be social/economic criticism aimed at how ordinary Americans were being exploited or swindled by those in power.