Judge — March 29, 1902 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "The Sunrise of Cuban Prosperity" This Judge magazine cover from March 29, 1902 celebrates American economic interests following the Spanish-American War (1898) and Cuba's independence. The illustration shows a figure (likely representing American business or capital) viewing Cuba's sunrise/future, with the Capitol dome silhouetted on the horizon. Radiating stars suggest hope and American influence. The scattered papers at the figure's feet appear to list Cuban resources or business opportunities—suggesting American commercial interests in sugar, tobacco, and other Cuban exports. The phrase "reciprocity with Cuba" visible on the Capitol references trade agreements negotiated between the newly independent Cuba and the United States. The cartoon expresses contemporary American optimism about profitable economic relationships with Cuba under U.S. influence following the war.