“The Tournament of Today--A Set to Between Labor and Monopoly”--Puck, 1883
Complete an analysis for the cartoon above.
What symbolism do you see in the cartoon? What is the historical context of the cartoon?
What is the message of the cartoon? What is the artist trying to portray or convey to readers?
In the cartoon "The Tournament of Today - A Set to Between Labor and Monopoly" from the magazine Puck in 1883, several symbols and historical context can be observed. The cartoon depicts a boxing ring, where two opponents are facing each other. On one side, a figure representing Labor, wearing tattered clothing and bearing a worn-out glove, stands defiantly. On the other side, a figure representing Monopoly, portrayed as a well-dressed upper-class individual, stands confidently with a large boxing glove labeled "Monopoly" covering his right hand. The spectators in the background represent different professions, including farmers, lawyers, manufacturers, and railroad workers.
The historical context of this cartoon is the Gilded Age in the late 19th century, a time of rapid industrialization and economic growth in the United States. During this period, vast disparities emerged between the wealthy industrialists, often referred to as Robber Barons, and the working class. Monopolies were gaining significant power and control over various industries, leading to concerns over their exploitation of workers and stifling competition.
The message of the cartoon is a criticism of the growing power of monopolies and their impact on labor. The artist is portraying the struggle between Labor and Monopoly as a boxing match, with Labor representing the common working class people and Monopoly symbolizing the wealthy elites. The worn-out glove and tattered clothing of the Labor figure depict the hardships and struggles faced by workers, while the large and dominant "Monopoly" glove symbolizes the overwhelming power and influence of monopolies.
The artist conveys the idea that labor is engaged in a direct fight against the oppressive force of monopoly. This cartoon aims to raise awareness about the negative effects of monopolies on the working class and advocates for workers' rights. It seeks to highlight the economic inequality and social injustice stemming from the concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few. Overall, the cartoon serves as a visual commentary on the unequal power dynamics and economic conditions of the time.