The Wasp — 1896 — page 809: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page features a large illustration of a rotund figure labeled "STEAM BEER POLITICS" emerging from a beer barrel. The accompanying text attacks Democratic fundraising efforts, mocking Chairman Alford's failure to raise sufficient campaign contributions from the state central committee and other sources. The cartoon satirizes the corruption of California Democratic politics through alcohol industry money and backroom dealings. Additional brief political commentary discusses various scandals involving judges, politicians, and misuse of office—including attacks on Joe Kelly and controversies surrounding the Coroner's position. The page concludes with typical period advertisements for tailoring services and hat manufacturers. The overall tone is acidly critical of Democratic machine politics and civic corruption in early 20th-century California.