The Wasp, 1880-05-15 · page 10 of 18
The Wasp — May 15, 1880 — page 10: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
# Political Cartoon Analysis This engraving depicts a bearded man in dark clothing seated at a desk or witness stand, gesturing expressively while speaking. Behind him sits a row of stern-faced observers or judges. The caption reads "DONE NOTHIN':" suggesting the figure is defending himself against accusations of inaction or failure. The cartoon appears to be political satire from a 19th-century American context, likely critiquing a public official or political figure accused of negligence or incompetence in office. The formal courtroom-like setting and the defendant's defensive posture emphasize the seriousness of the charges. However, without additional context from *The Wasp* publication or clearer identification of the specific figure, I cannot definitively identify which politician or event this references.