Judge — June 24, 1905 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon depicts **War** (a bearded, demonic figure on the left) encountering **Peace** (an angelic figure on the right, labeled "WAR IS HELL"). The caption reads: "Please—'You first, my dear WAR. I come after.'" The satire critiques the superficial politeness masking genuine conflict during this period. War appears aggressive and eager, while Peace offers hollow courtesy, suggesting that diplomatic niceties were merely theatrical gestures that couldn't prevent military confrontation. The date (June 1905) likely references tensions during the **Russo-Japanese War** or broader imperial conflicts of the era, when nations performed civility while preparing for violence. The cartoon cynically suggests "politeness" was merely a pretext preceding inevitable warfare.