The Wasp — 1878 — page 426: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This cartoon from *The San Francisco Illustrated Wasp* (July 6, 1875) satirizes political corruption through the metaphor of street peddling. A bearded man hawking from a cart holds a sign reading "CHEAP POLITICS" with text that appears to reference "$20" (unclear exact wording). He's surrounded by men in suits and hats—likely representing politicians or voters—who eagerly approach his wares. On the right stands "Justice," depicted as a classical female figure, observing the scene. The cartoon's message: politics have become a cheap commodity openly bought and sold in the streets, with politicians literally peddling corrupt influence. The presence of Justice as a powerless witness emphasizes her inability to stop this brazen corruption. This reflects 1870s concerns about political graft and the commercialization of electoral processes.