The Wasp — 1878 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Content Analysis: The Illustrated Wasp, August 3, 1878 This is primarily an editorial/masthead page rather than a cartoon page. The left side features The Wasp's ornate logo with decorative figures, publication details (602 California St., San Francisco), and subscription rates ($4.00/year for city subscribers). The right side contains two editorials. "Ourselves" addresses the magazine's third volume launch and defends editorial independence—suggesting the Wasp faced criticism for hiring decisions or staff changes. "The Franchise" criticizes public apathy toward recent Constitutional Convention elections, arguing citizens must engage in governance and develop robust citizenship to maintain democracy. The page reflects 1870s San Francisco journalism concerns: editorial autonomy, civic participation, and democratic responsibility—rather than satirical cartooning.