The Wasp — 1879 — page 400: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page from *The Wasp* (a San Francisco satirical magazine) shows a political cartoon depicting Uncle Sam—identifiable by his starred top hat and patriotic clothing—appearing to fish or reach for something in water. The figure is drawn in a caricatured style typical of late 19th/early 20th-century political commentary. Without clearer OCR text or additional context visible on the page, the specific political reference remains unclear. However, the cartoon likely critiques U.S. foreign policy, expansion, or intervention—common *Wasp* themes. Uncle Sam's fishing gesture may represent attempting to "catch" territory, resources, or influence abroad. The satirical intent appears to mock American imperial ambitions or aggressive diplomacy of the era.