Judge — March 9, 1901 — page 11: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon depicts President William McKinley's second inauguration on March 4, 1904. The illustration shows McKinley (left, in top hat) as a tall, commanding figure holding what appears to be a ceremonial staff or baton. He's positioned prominently in front of the U.S. Capitol Building, with crowds and other dignitaries surrounding him. The satire likely comments on McKinley's political power and popularity during his presidency, which included the Spanish-American War and imperial expansion. The formal ceremonial setting emphasizes the grandeur of his political position. The exaggerated scale of McKinley compared to other figures suggests Judge magazine's commentary on his dominance in American politics at that moment.