The Wasp — February 14, 1880 — page 10: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Leon Gambetta Portrait Page This page from *The Illustrated Wasp* features a biographical portrait and engraving of **Leon Gambetta**, a prominent French Republican politician. The text celebrates him as an intellectual and skilled orator who rose through Republican ranks during the turbulent 1860s-70s period. The article notes his role defending the Democratic newspaper *Avenir* and his involvement in the 1868 shooting incident involving Baudin. He notably became a leading figure during the Franco-Prussian War and subsequently served as French Prime Minister and other high offices. The caption emphasizes his oratorical power and political influence, describing him as "one of the most intellectual looking and handsomest men in France." The portrait shows a bearded man in formal dress—standard representation for respected statesmen of this era.