The Wasp — 1890 — page 136: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon satirizes anti-Mormon sentiment in late 19th-century America. The image depicts caricatured figures—appearing to represent politicians or reformers—outside what looks like the U.S. Capitol (indicated by the classical dome and columns), gesturing dramatically as if debating or proposing action against Mormon influence. The caption "Cure the Mormon Stronghold" suggests this addresses contemporary political efforts to curtail The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' power, particularly regarding polygamy and Utah territorial governance. The exaggerated facial features and theatrical poses mock the intensity of this public controversy. The cartoon reflects the late 1800s debate over Mormon practices and federal authority over western territories—a significant political issue before Utah's statehood in 1896.