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What are you going to do about it?, from Harpers Weekly
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What are you going to do about it?, from Harpers Weekly
PNP284618 What are you going to do about it?, from Harpers Weekly, 14th October 1871 (engraving) by Nast, Thomas (1840-1902); Private Collection; (add.info.: William Marcey Boss Tweed (1823-78) corrupt leader of the Tammany Society, the Democratic Party Political Machine; his fraud and stealing of public money; ); Peter Newark American Pictures; American, out of copyright
Media ID 22945598
© Peter Newark American Pictures / Bridgeman Images
American Politician Boss Contrast Corruption Fraudster Graft Greed Illegal Activity Injustice Policeman Political Satire Power Broker Privilege Rich Scandal Tammany Hall Workmen
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The engraving titled "What are you going to do about it?" captures the essence of privilege, scandal, and greed during a tumultuous period in American history. Created by Thomas Nast for Harper's Weekly on October 14th, 1871, this political satire exposes the corrupt leader of the Tammany Society, William Marcey Boss Tweed. In this thought-provoking image, we witness a stark contrast between the wealthy and powerful figures represented by Boss Tweed and the impoverished workers struggling to make ends meet. The cartoonish caricature of Tweed is depicted as an overweight man with a smug expression on his face while standing next to an empty cupboard symbolizing his fraudulent activities and stealing of public money. The engraving serves as a scathing critique of political corruption and injustice prevalent at that time. It highlights how those in power exploit their positions for personal gain while disregarding the needs and struggles of ordinary citizens. The presence of a policeman further emphasizes how even law enforcement can be manipulated or corrupted by influential figures like Boss Tweed. Nast's artwork not only sheds light on one specific case but also reflects broader issues surrounding government graft and illegal activities in North America during that era. Through its satirical lens, this print challenges viewers to question what actions they will take against such injustices – hence its poignant title: "What are you going to do about it?"
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