The Wasp — 1879 — page 450: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page features a portrait and biographical sketch of **Leon Gambetta**, a prominent French Republican politician. The text describes his rise from modest origins to becoming a major political force, particularly during the Franco-Prussian War and its aftermath. The article emphasizes his role as "Dictator of France" and his efforts to reorganize the government during national crisis. It notes his position as a leading Republican figure and mentions he established the *République Française* newspaper. The sketch presents him as an ambitious, powerful operator—a self-made man who rose through political skill during turbulent times. The portrait shows a bearded man in formal dress, typical of 1870s French political portraiture. The tone suggests this is straightforward biographical journalism rather than sharp satire.