The Wasp — 1881 — page 390: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon from *The Wasp* (May 14, 1881) depicts a man receiving a laurel wreath from a classical female figure (representing victory or honor), while a bear stands nearby. The figure wears a sash reading "I SAID AYE BY THE MAJORITY," suggesting a parliamentary or voting decision. A sign advertises "ONLY 15 COOLIES AT ONE TIME" and references "CARTAGE" and "IMMIG[RATION]," indicating the cartoon satirizes immigration policy, likely Chinese labor importation—a contentious issue in 1880s San Francisco. "Gen. Miller's Reward" appears to mock a political figure's (possibly General Miller's) support for or passage of restrictive immigration legislation, celebrated by nativists but contested by those dependent on immigrant labor. The bear likely represents California or the state's interests.