History in Cartoons

The Protectors of our Industries

Source: Puck, 1909

Artist: Bernahard Gillam

Library of Congress

LC-USZC4-3108

 

In your small group, use the Cartoon Analysis Worksheet to analyze and discuss the symbols, caricatures, and argument presented in the cartoon.

 

1. The cartoon's caption is "The Protectors of Our Industries." What is this cartoon about?

 

2. Who or what groups are represented holding up the ship and its cargo?

 

3. What is on the platform? Why are Cyrus Field, Jay Gould, William Vanderbilt and Russell Sage caricatured in the figures on the platform?

 

4. The wealthy men on top, the bags of money, the workers and their products, and the water lapping at the workers are all symbols. What is the broad point being made?

 

5. The cartoon could be summed up by a political slogan, such as "The rich are betraying the working man." What more does the cartoon add to this slogan?