The Wasp — 1880 — page 283: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page from *The Wasp* (dated Nov. 25, 1880) combines several elements: **Main Content:** - A lengthy poem titled "BOVINE VIRUS" satirizing the smallpox vaccine debate, particularly referencing "San Francisco vaccine matters" - An article on "COMPULSORY VACCINATION AT SACRAMENTO" discussing a school board controversy where Mr. Holmes opposed mandatory vaccination, claiming it wasn't in the public interest **Dictionary Section:** The right column contains humorous definitions of words beginning with "O" (OBITUARY, OBSEQUIOUS, OBSOLETE, etc.), a recurring *Wasp* feature mocking language and social pretension. **The Satire:** The vaccination content mocks both anti-vaccination sentiment and the political resistance to mandatory public health measures in 1880s California, presented through mock-serious verse and reported controversy.