The Wasp, 1876 · page 78 of 230
The Wasp — 1876 — page 78: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This cartoon depicts three men in 1876, with two embracing while a third watches. The speech bubbles reference a reconciliation between figures identified as "Brother George" and "Gorman," discussing past wrongs and forgiveness. The satire appears to address post-Civil War Reconstruction politics, likely depicting Republican and Democratic party figures reconciling despite historical conflicts. References to being "the greatest Scoundrel" and mentions of "federal appointees" suggest criticism of political corruption and patronage during this era. The title "On This?" indicates skepticism about such reconciliation—the cartoon's point seems to be that these political enemies are suspiciously burying their differences, possibly for mutual gain rather than genuine principle. The specific identities of the figures and the exact political event referenced remain unclear without additional historical context.