The Wasp — 1876 — page 65: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon satirizes a wasp attacking what appears to be a Chinese laborer. The image shows an anthropomorphic wasp with a human face wielding a sword against an Asian figure near a building labeled "SIR STARWEACCO" (unclear text). The cartoon likely references anti-Chinese sentiment and labor disputes prevalent in 1870s California. "The Wasp" was known for inflammatory satirical commentary. The exaggerated caricature and aggressive imagery reflect the virulent xenophobia of the era, when Chinese workers faced violent opposition from white laborers who blamed them for taking jobs and depressing wages. The specific political context—whether responding to particular labor unrest or legislation—remains unclear without additional documentation, but the hostile symbolism is unmistakable.