The Wasp — July 17, 1880 — page 4: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of "The Illustrated Wasp" Page 819 This page contains political commentary rather than cartoons. The main article, "A Plague on Both Your Houses," presents dueling editorials from Democratic and Republican perspectives on James A. Garfield's presidential candidacy. The Democratic piece criticizes Garfield as morally compromised, while the Republican defense praises his character and achievements. Both sides invoke Civil War-era divisions and questions of national leadership. The "Stings" column contains brief satirical jabs at contemporary figures and issues: Ohio's new Voter Registrar, European-Turkish conflicts, American rifle teams, and Clara Voss (identity unclear). The page satirizes partisan gridlock through competing narratives about the same candidate, suggesting both parties weaponize character attacks while claiming moral authority. This reflects Gilded Age political polarization.