The Wasp — 1889 — page 219: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon depicts what appears to be a labor or industrial safety allegory. A man operates machinery labeled with terms like "SLAVE TRADE," "BARBARISM," and "FRAUDULENT" while another man watches nervously. The operator wears a cap marked "PRIOR RESIDENT," suggesting a former officeholder. Books at the machine's base include "CHINESE" and "PERJURY." The cartoon warns that certain political figures or policies—particularly regarding Chinese immigration and labor practices—constitute a "dangerous machine" producing harmful social outcomes. The "Prior Resident" label likely references a previous U.S. president whose policies are being criticized as perpetuating exploitative labor systems. The satire suggests these policies threaten American society through corruption and inhumane treatment.