The Wasp — 1879 — page 263: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon satirizes Senator Bayard of Delaware and various political figures involved in corruption scandals. The illustration depicts a disheveled man labeled as representing "human trash," likely referencing Denis Kearney, an agitator mentioned in the accompanying text. The article criticizes multiple politicians and activists: Judge Louderback's corruption, James Gould's judicial misconduct, and various fraudsters. The text particularly attacks those exploiting the "Working-men" movement while engaging in criminal behavior. The cartoon appears designed to mock political opportunists and corrupt officials who manipulate populist sentiment for personal gain. The "trash" metaphor suggests The Wasp viewed these figures as society's refuse, unworthy of public trust despite their political influence.