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Congressional cracksmen, 1882
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Congressional cracksmen, 1882
1574388 Congressional cracksmen, 1882; (add.info.: Print shows "Policeman Puck" and Uncle Sam investigating a robbery at the U.S. Treasury, a safe has been broken into and a barrel labelled "150, 000, 000 $ Surplus" is empty; there is a hole in the floor which leads to the Congressional chamber, below. A crumpled notice on the floor of the chamber states "Congressional Theatre. The Hit of the Season!!! The 40 Thieves Keifer manager, Robeson property man". The robbery happens to coincide with the end of the 1st session of the 47th Congress; a ladder labelled "Adjournment of Congress" leans against an open window, it is supported by John A. Logan and John Sherman as Horace F. Page and two other Congressmen descend. Other Congressmen, among them George M. Robeson carrying a sack labelled "Navy Appropriation" and James D. Cameron dragging a sack labelled "River & Harbour", are headed for their home states carrying sacks with "$" on them. Created by Joseph Ferdinand Keppler (1838-1894). Dated 1882); Universal History Archive/UIG
Media ID 38105224
© Universal History Archive/UIG / Bridgeman Images
1880s Police Puck Robbery Uncle Sam America Continent Americhe
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This satirical print from 1882 by Joseph Ferdinand Keppler titled "Congressional Cracksmen" captures the political corruption and greed of the time with clever wit. The scene depicts a robbery at the U.S. Treasury, where a safe has been broken into and a barrel labeled "150,000,000 $ Surplus" is empty. Policeman Puck and Uncle Sam are seen investigating the crime, while a hole in the floor leads to the Congressional chamber below.
As Congressmen descend from an open window using a ladder labeled "Adjournment of Congress," they are depicted carrying sacks filled with money appropriated for various purposes such as Navy and River & Harbor funds. The crumpled notice on the floor reads "Congressional Theatre. The Hit of the Season!!! 'The 40 Thieves' Keifer manager, Robeson property man," highlighting the theatrical nature of politics at that time.
This print serves as a scathing commentary on political corruption and self-serving behavior within government institutions during this period. Keppler's sharp satire exposes how politicians were more concerned with lining their pockets than serving their constituents or upholding ethical standards. It is both humorous and thought-provoking, reminding viewers of the timeless issues surrounding power, money, and morality in politics.
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