The Wasp — 1878 — page 58: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page from *The Wasp* contains primarily text articles rather than illustrated cartoons. The content includes: 1. **"Facts About Kerosene"** – A satirical piece praising kerosene's usefulness while mocking gas companies' opposition to it, suggesting they suppress information about cheaper alternatives to their products. 2. **"The Situation"** – Commentary on Sacramento's current state, addressing labor unrest and economic conditions affecting workingmen. 3. **"The Protestant Orphan Asylum"** – A formal protest/petition regarding proposed changes to the institution's property and management, signed by trustees. The satire primarily targets corporate monopolies (particularly gas companies) suppressing consumer information, and critiques social institutions' governance. This reflects late 19th-century American concerns about corporate power and institutional accountability.