Judge — April 2, 1898 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of Judge Magazine Cover, April 2, 1898 This satirical cartoon comments on the **Cuban War of Independence** and American intervention. The central figure appears to be a political leader (likely President McKinley, given the 1898 date) gesturing toward "Recognition of the Cuban Republic"—a document held by an allegorical female figure representing America or Liberty. The caption "1863-1898—HISTORY REPEATS IT" references the parallel between the **Cuban struggle** and America's own **Civil War** (1861-1865), suggesting history is repeating itself as America considers supporting Cuban independence from Spain. A secondary statue on the left shows a figure labeled "Inauguration of A. Lincoln," reinforcing the historical comparison about liberty and national independence. The cartoon satirizes America's delayed recognition of Cuba's independence movement.