The Wasp — 1889 — page 107: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon depicts **Britannia** (left, in classical armor and helmet) confronting a woman representing **California** (right, in classical dress) at the State Capitol building. Between them is a bear—likely representing the **California Bear Flag** or state symbol. The caption's joke plays on the phrase "worry them just a little bit," suggesting California should allow its "bear loose" to "worry" (harass/threaten) British interests. This appears to be **anti-British satire**, probably referencing 19th-century tensions between American and British imperial interests in the Pacific region. The cartoon advocates for California to assert aggressive independence against British power, using the bear as a symbol of Californian strength and willingness to cause trouble for Britain.