Judge — October 19, 1901 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of Judge Magazine Cover, October 19, 1901 This political cartoon depicts insects (likely representing warring nations or factions) engaged in conflict within what appears to be a bedroom or intimate domestic space. The title "AND YET THEY SAY THE WAR IS OVER!" sarcastically suggests that despite claims of peace, hostilities continue. The accompanying verse references "John Bull's gay geranium" — John Bull representing Britain — implying British colonial interests remain embattled. The insects piercing through fabric and the domestic setting suggest the war's invasive persistence despite official declarations of peace. This likely references the **Second Boer War** (1899-1902), which officially ended in May 1901 but saw ongoing guerrilla resistance. The satire critiques the gap between official peace proclamations and continuing bloodshed in colonial conflicts.