The Wasp — 1892 — page 117: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

The main cartoon depicts **Uncle Sam in a collar**, being held by what appears to be a **British figure** (identifiable by the top hat and formal dress). The caption reads "I'M NOT CIGNO VINES" (likely OCR error for a phrase about being ignored or disrespected). This satirizes **Anglo-American tensions** of the era. The joke: Uncle Sam, representing American sovereignty and strength, is literally collared and controlled by Britain—visualizing American resentment over British economic or political dominance. The cartoon suggests America is not truly independent but rather Britain's subordinate. The accompanying articles discuss American grievances against British policy regarding California, trade, and colonial matters, reinforcing the visual metaphor of American subservience to British interests.