Judge — February 9, 1907 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon satirizes President Theodore Roosevelt's relationship with conservation and hunting. The central figure, labeled "Roosevelt," holds two teddy bears—one marked "White Vote" and one marked "Black Vote"—while the caption asks "Do I Love My Teddy Bears?" The bears reference the "Teddy Bear," a toy named after Roosevelt following a famous 1902 hunting incident. The satire appears to critique Roosevelt's political manipulation, suggesting he treats voting blocs (racial groups) as toys or playthings rather than constituents with genuine interests. The cartoon implies Roosevelt weaponizes his popular image and sentimental associations to control different voter segments. This reflects early-20th-century anxieties about racial politics and political authenticity.