The Wasp — 1892 — page 34: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page satirizes Democratic Party candidates in what appears to be a California election. The large cartoon "LEND ME YOUR EAR" depicts a politician (likely a candidate) with exaggerated features attempting to persuade voters. The "DO YOU KNOW?" section comprises satirical character sketches of Democratic nominees for various offices—Sheriff, Police Chief, Supervisor, Superior Judge, and others. Each entry mocks the candidates through brief, cutting descriptions of their backgrounds, qualifications, or perceived inadequacies. The satire targets the Democratic Party's candidate slate as weak or unqualified. The final section, "A PRECAUTION," is an unrelated anecdote about a professor posting a sign on his study door. The magazine's purpose was clearly partisan political commentary attacking Democratic candidates through humor and ridicule.