The Wasp — 1889 — page 199: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon depicts a menacing figure labeled "SOLID MINE" holding two smaller figures representing San Francisco. The caption states: "The Solid Mine Have San Francisco in Their Grip Despite Mayor Veto." The satire criticizes mining interests' control over San Francisco's governance, despite mayoral opposition. The large, grotesque character embodies the mining industry as a threatening force dominating the city. The two figures—appearing to represent different aspects of the city or citizenry—are shown helpless in its grasp. This reflects late 19th/early 20th-century concerns about corporate power overriding local democratic institutions. The mayor's veto proved ineffective against entrenched mining industry influence, suggesting oligarchic capture of city politics. The cartoon advocates for public resistance to such corporate dominance.