The Wasp — August 23, 1879 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "U.S. A Plague Upon" This political cartoon satirizes various American social problems through caricature. Multiple figures wear signs reading "THE MUSIC MUST GO" (appearing multiple times), suggesting criticism of popular entertainment or cultural frivolity during serious times. The composition depicts a chaotic crowd of exaggerated characters—including what appear to be politicians, wealthy businessmen (top hats), and other societal figures—engaged in disorder or moral decay. One figure appears angelic or allegorical (top left). The cartoon likely criticizes American society's obsession with entertainment and pleasure-seeking while ignoring serious social ills. The "plague" reference suggests the cartoonist views these problems as widespread disease afflicting the nation. Without the magazine's date, the specific crisis being referenced remains unclear, though the style suggests late 19th or early 20th century.