The Wasp — 1880 — page 235: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains literary content rather than political cartoons. It presents "The Book of the Children of Samuel," Chapter XV, titled "Of the Choosing of Abraham, Who Was Called Garfield." The text is a satirical narrative retelling of American political events in biblical language. It appears to mock the succession of President **James A. Garfield** (referred to as "Abraham/Garfield") and conflicts between political factions—the "Semites" and "Demoklites"—over governmental control and appointments. The piece ridicules partisan disputes over spoils and patronage, framing political maneuvering as ancient tribal warfare. A poem titled "Pete" by Hector A. Stuart follows, likely satirizing a contemporary political figure. Without visible illustrations on this page, the satire relies entirely on textual parody of biblical language to critique Gilded Age politics.