The Wasp — 1878 — page 450: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical page depicts various hypocritical displays of patriotism through sequential vignettes. The title suggests the cartoon critiques different—and contradictory—ways people claim patriotic virtue. The panels show civilians engaging in everyday activities (riding carts, traveling on horseback, gatherings) while apparently invoking patriotic justifications. The exaggerated caricatures and chaotic scenes suggest mockery of people using "patriotism" as cover for selfish or disreputable behavior. The label "ON THE 'THIRD'" and "AND ON THE 'FOURTH'" likely references Independence Day celebrations, implying Americans celebrated patriotism while engaging in un-patriotic conduct. Without dating information visible, the specific historical moment remains unclear, but *The Wasp* was known for attacking political hypocrisy and social pretense in Gilded Age America.