The Wasp — 1878 — page 82: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains gossip items and satirical commentary rather than a primary cartoon. The illustration at top left shows two figures in conversation, labeled "GOSSIP," depicting the magazine's satirical reporting style. The text mocks various targets: fraudulent bonds from Southern states (referencing Reconstruction-era financial schemes), a woman giving birth to an unusually large child (playing on sensationalism), clergy and judges, and Irish immigrants. There's also mockery of a fish-peddler's mishap and commentary on racial politics regarding African Americans in the South. The satire employs period stereotypes and sensationalism typical of 1870s-80s American satirical magazines, targeting politicians, minorities, and social figures through exaggeration and crude humor.