The Wasp — 1891 — page 322: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical illustration depicts **police corruption and bribery**. The central figure appears to be a corrupt police officer or inspector surrounded by evidence of illicit activity: ammunition/weapons, a "Dime Songs" book, bottles labeled "Inspiration" and "Whisky," police badges marked with dollar amounts ($400), and various contraband items in a metal cage. The scattered police badges with prices suggest **officers selling official positions or influence**. The weaponry, liquor, and "Examiner Club" reference indicate involvement in illegal enterprises—likely bootlegging or other Prohibition-era crimes. The title fragment mentions "statesmen had gone home," implying absent civic oversight. This cartoon satirizes **systematic police graft and corruption**, suggesting law enforcement officials were complicit in—rather than preventing—criminal activities during this period.