The Wasp — 1895 — page 448: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is the title page of *The Wasp*, a San Francisco satirical weekly established in 1876. The masthead features decorative illustrations of animals and foliage flanking the publication's name, which is described as "the oldest cartoon paper in colors in the United States." The page contains publication information and several short satirical pieces. The visible commentary addresses contemporary political issues: criticism of Mayor Satro and city commissioners regarding graft; commentary on Republican handling of the "silver question"; criticism of ex-Secretary Whitney; and commentary on General W.H.L. Barnes and changing police force demographics (specifically Irish officers). These brief satirical items represent typical content—political critiques and social commentary on local San Francisco politics and national issues of the 1880s.