The Wasp — 1890 — page 326: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon depicts **William McKinley of Ohio** (identifiable by the label) driving a broken-down horse-drawn buggy labeled "Old Republican Rig." The figure appears exhausted, surrounded by various political figures on the right side. The satire critiques McKinley's **tariff policy** (the "Kinley Bill"), which protected American industries through high import duties. The dialogue references: - **"Free Trade buggy"** in splinters (opposition to protective tariffs) - **"Sectional Issue shirt"** beyond repair (North-South regional tensions over tariffs) - The "Old Republican Rig" as worn out The cartoon suggests McKinley's tariff approach has damaged the Republican Party and the economy, leaving both fractured and exhausted. The surrounding figures likely represent rival political factions.