Judge — September 10, 1904 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon depicts a large threatening hand (labeled "The Black Hand") looming over a group of figures representing democratic institutions or leaders. The hand appears to symbolize an external authoritarian or criminal threat—likely referencing the "Black Hand," a historical term for anarchist or terrorist organizations operating in early 20th-century Europe and America. The cartoon satirizes anxieties about threats to American democracy from radical political movements. The figures below seem to represent government or civic authorities appearing vulnerable or helpless against this shadowy force. This reflects contemporary concerns about anarchism, labor radicalism, or foreign political conspiracies during the Progressive Era.