Judge — August 12, 1905 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Uncle Sam Unmasked" - Judge Magazine, August 12, 1905 This political cartoon depicts Uncle Sam—the personification of the United States—with his mask removed to reveal a demonic or grotesque face beneath. The figure wears patriotic symbols (top hat with star, striped pants) while holding what appears to be a bloody hand or weapon. The Capitol building is visible in the background, suggesting federal government critique. The "unmasked" concept implies the cartoon is exposing alleged hypocrisy or hidden cruelty behind America's patriotic facade—likely referencing U.S. imperialism, foreign interventions, or domestic injustices of the early 1900s. The artist Davis uses caricature to argue that American values and actual American conduct diverge sharply. Without additional context from Judge's 1905 editorial stance, the specific target remains unclear—possibly Philippine-American War aftermath or domestic labor issues.