The Wasp — 1890 — page 285: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon depicts Senator Dargie as a figure attempting to hold back a tide of people fleeing Oakland toward mountains in the background. The scene shows citizens departing the city, with Dargie portrayed as ineffectually trying to stop them—suggested by his dramatic gesturing and the biblical/mythological imagery of "stemming the tide." The satire criticizes Dargie's political actions or policies, implying his efforts to retain Oakland's population or economic vitality were unsuccessful or futile. The exaggerated, grotesque caricature of Dargie emphasizes the cartoon's mockery. Without additional historical context about specific Oakland events or Dargie's legislation, the exact grievance remains unclear, but the overall message condemns his political impotence.