The Wasp — 1889 — page 85: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This cartoon from *The Wasp* satirizes President Harrison's administration regarding California and the Chinese Exclusion Act. The text indicates Harrison "won't deal" with repealing the Exclusion Act. The bearded man in the center appears to represent President Harrison or an administration official. On the right stands a figure in classical/allegorical dress (possibly representing California or Lady Liberty), shown in an exaggerated, unflattering caricature style typical of the era's satirical art. The cartoon criticizes the administration's refusal to repeal Chinese exclusion legislation—a politically contentious issue in California, which had significant Chinese immigration and anti-Chinese sentiment. The satirist suggests the administration's inaction disappoints those (represented by the allegorical figure) seeking policy change.