A war president. Progressive democracy, N. Currier (Firm), , [New York N. Currier], c1848, 1 print on wove paper lithograph, image 33. 8 x 42. 7 cm, A caricature of Democratic candidate Lewis Cass, a general in the War of 1812, suggesting that his expansionist leanings would lead the United States into war. Cass (dubbed 'General Gas' by the unfriendly press) is pictured as a veritable war machine. He sits on a wheeled gun-carriage, with his various limbs and body parts in the form of cannon shells and barrels shooting 'gas' and shot. Over his head he waves a bloody saber labeled 'Manifest Destiny, ' while reciting, 'New Mexico, California, Chihuahua, Zacatecas, MEXICO, Peru, Yucatan, Cuba. ' These reflect, with some exaggeration, Cass's ambitious agenda for territorial expansion in the wake of American victory in the Mexican War. In his left hand he holds a spear.