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"Bribery: A Historical Perspective on Corruption and Temptation" In the realm of human vices, it has persistently woven its web throughout history, leaving behind tales of deceit and moral compromise. From the notorious Mary Frith, a cunning pickpocket in 17th-century London, to the satirical engravings like "Idol-Worship or the Way to Preferment" (1740), society has long grappled with this insidious practice. The canvassing for votes during elections became a breeding ground for bribery's malevolence. Paintings such as "The Election II: Canvassing for Votes" (1754-55) and "The Election III: The Polling" (1754-55) depict an era when politicians shamelessly sought favor through illicit means. Even Curius Dentatus stood resolute against Samnites' bribes in ancient Rome, highlighting the timeless battle between integrity and corruption. As time progressed, artists like Joseph Swain captured the essence of bribery's absurdity in works such as "Balfours Irrepressible Donkey" (1888). Satirical cartoons like George Cruikshank's "Show of Hands for a Liberal Candidate" (1843) exposed how money could sway even those entrusted with voting power. Not limited to politics alone, bribery seeped into various facets of society. Journalism itself fell prey to its allure; depicted vividly in colorful lithographs like "Journalism. " Meanwhile, British warfare faced scrutiny in H. R. Robinson's publication "British Warfare in 1812" (1837-38), revealing that even military endeavors were not immune from this corrosive practice. Yet amidst these dark shadows cast by greed and dishonesty emerged glimmers of hope. In Le bon moyen, " an illustration from Le Pele-Mele (1902), we witness resistance against temptation—a reminder that not all succumb to the allure of bribery.