In this 1884 Puck cartoon illustrated by Frederick Burr Opper, a crooked Pied Piper cast as James G. Blaine puffs on a magical flute labeled “Magnetic Influence” while trying to lure newspaper editors into supporting his presidential ambitions. Each “child” carries a newspaper title—and each one refuses to follow. The message was unmistakable: a free press cannot be bought, charmed, or intimidated into obedience. Puck published this during the Republican National Convention, warning that political demagogues thrive only when journalists stop asking hard questions.
More than a century later, it still hits home. A restored illustration reminding us that independent journalism is democracy’s immune system.
Add two mugs to your cart to receive an automatic bundle discount.
In this 1884 Puck cartoon illustrated by Frederick Burr Opper, a crooked Pied Piper cast as James G. Blaine puffs on a magical flute labeled “Magnetic Influence” while trying to lure newspaper editors into supporting his presidential ambitions. Each “child” carries a newspaper title—and each one refuses to follow. The message was unmistakable: a free press cannot be bought, charmed, or intimidated into obedience. Puck published this during the Republican National Convention, warning that political demagogues thrive only when journalists stop asking hard questions.
More than a century later, it still hits home. A restored illustration reminding us that independent journalism is democracy’s immune system.
Add two mugs to your cart to receive an automatic bundle discount.
