The Wasp — 1879 — page 477: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page is primarily editorial and advertising content rather than political cartoons. The masthead logo appears at top left. The main editorial, titled "CONVICTS MUST GO!" addresses Chinese immigrant laborers in California, specifically those imprisoned or working in chain gangs. The article argues against their presence, characterizing them as criminals and social threats. It advocates for their removal, claiming they undermine wages and morality for white workers. The satire reflects California's intense **anti-Chinese sentiment** during this period—a precursor to the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act. The piece uses inflammatory language typical of xenophobic 1880s journalism, framing Chinese workers as inherent threats rather than addressing actual labor competition concerns. The page includes subscription rates and notices typical of period publications.