The Wasp — 1893 — page 156: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon satirizes the Cleveland administration's handling of free trade policy. The three figures represent: - **Left**: The "Old Democratic Party," depicted as an elderly woman looking distressed - **Center**: A small figure labeled "Free Trade Recitation" (likely President Grover Cleveland), portrayed as a child being disciplined - **Right**: An authority figure (possibly representing Republican opposition or political critics) administering punishment The caption quotes "Johnny Bull" (Britain, personified), mocking Cleveland's free trade position as mere recitation—empty words rather than genuine policy. The scattered items suggest disorder from failed trade policies. The cartoon criticizes Democrats for advocating free trade while facing practical economic consequences, suggesting their rhetoric doesn't match reality. This reflects 1893's economic tensions during the Panic of 1893.