This 1889 cartoon from Judge Magazine skewers James G. Blaine’s dream of steering South America into the arms of U.S. power. Blaine—drawn here as a self-styled frontier “guide”—tries to lead the nations of Latin America toward American markets whether they want guiding or not. The artist exposes the arrogance baked into this foreign-policy fantasy: a belief that other nations exist to be directed, managed, or economically harvested at Washington’s convenience. More than a century later, the joke still lands. Imperial posturing, manufactured influence, and “we know what’s best for you” politics remain the old tricks of would-be global strongmen. This piece calls that out with the sharp humor of the Gilded Age—reminding us how easily power slides into domination when left unchecked. Authentic resistance art from 1889, revived for a new fight.
Durable stainless steel core with enamel finish resists rust and staining | Lead and BPA-free | Not suitable for microwave use | Hand wash only.
This 1889 cartoon from Judge Magazine skewers James G. Blaine’s dream of steering South America into the arms of U.S. power. Blaine—drawn here as a self-styled frontier “guide”—tries to lead the nations of Latin America toward American markets whether they want guiding or not. The artist exposes the arrogance baked into this foreign-policy fantasy: a belief that other nations exist to be directed, managed, or economically harvested at Washington’s convenience. More than a century later, the joke still lands. Imperial posturing, manufactured influence, and “we know what’s best for you” politics remain the old tricks of would-be global strongmen. This piece calls that out with the sharp humor of the Gilded Age—reminding us how easily power slides into domination when left unchecked. Authentic resistance art from 1889, revived for a new fight.
Durable stainless steel core with enamel finish resists rust and staining | Lead and BPA-free | Not suitable for microwave use | Hand wash only.
