The champion of despotism

Magee, John L. · [1852?]

A satire critical of New York "Courier and Enquirer" editor, James Watson Webb for his journalistic assaults on exiled Hungarian revolutionary leader Louis Kossuth. Weitenkampf dates the cartoon 1852, but it may have appeared as early as December 1851, when Kossuth landed in New York for a much-publicized visit to seek American diplomatic and financial support for Hungary. His visit caused a sensation and he was greeted enthusiastically by most Americans, and was particularly embraced by libertarians and free-soilers. Webb's newspaper, however, was highly critical of Kossuth and his attempts to embroil the United States in the European conflict. Webb strides down the street, with his back to the viewer and a copy of the "Courier & Enquirer" with the headline "Kossuth," protruding from his back pocket. To the left a young apprentice at the entrance of a blacksmith shop points out Webb to his master, who is at work inside. To the right, two small children and a crowd of people watch Webb pass by, among them a tall man closely resembling Kossuth.