The Wasp — 1892 — page 215: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page satirizes a major boxing scandal, likely from the late 19th century. The large central caricature represents a prominent figure at the center of "The Great Fistic Controversy" (noted at bottom). The surrounding vignettes mock various responses to this controversy: - Panel 1: "Uncle Sam has it on the brain" — suggesting the scandal consumed public attention - Panel 3: "Henry Higgins (the tramp)" and "Ike Sullivan" — likely referencing boxer John L. Sullivan - Panel 4: A crowd scene suggesting public outcry - Panel 6: A "Christian Advocate" and "Family Meeting" discussing the scandal's moral implications The satire targets how American society—from religious authorities to newspapers to the general public—became obsessed with debating boxing matters, treating the controversy as a defining national issue.