The Wasp — 1893 — page 202: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page is primarily **text-based political satire** rather than visual cartoons. The left column titled "WHAT THEY WANT" mocks Democratic legislators and job-seekers pursuing foreign consulates, domestic positions, and patronage appointments. The satire ridicules their self-interested motivations—"I've sign my documents and I'll sign yours"—suggesting corrupt deal-making. The right side contains brief humorous anecdotes and jokes about swimming, clothing, and etiquette, plus vintage advertisements for Ely's Cream Balm and Canadian Club Whisky. **The political point**: The Wasp criticizes Democratic politicians for pursuing personal gain through government positions rather than serving the public interest, satirizing the era's spoils system and political patronage culture.