The Wasp — 1878 — page 444: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page is primarily text-based editorial content rather than visual satire. The main article "The Idiosyncrasies of Patriotism" critiques what the author sees as false or selective patriotism—specifically, people who claim to love their country while refusing to contribute fairly to its public institutions and infrastructure. The piece mocks citizens who enjoy public benefits (streets, halls, services) but resist taxation and civic obligations. It advocates for genuine patriotism involving "vigorous efforts to attain the public good" and shared sacrifice. A secondary article discusses the anniversary of Washington's Gainsborough bust at a local garden, celebrating civic pride in local monuments. The satire targets hypocrisy: those who demand national pride without accepting corresponding civic duties and financial contributions.