Judge — June 13, 1908 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This June 1908 political cartoon uses a mechanical metaphor to warn against interference with labor. The large gear labeled "CAPITAL LABOR" represents the functioning economic machine, while a sinister figure in top hat (likely representing either a political agitator or problematic political figure) attempts to disrupt it with a saw labeled "CAPITAL" and "LABOR." The Capitol building visible in the background suggests this addresses Congressional or federal policy. The caption's warning—"Don't monkey with the buzz-saw"—urges politicians to leave labor-capital relations undisturbed, implying that tampering risks dangerous consequences for the entire economy. The cartoon reflects Progressive Era tensions between labor and capital, warning against radical intervention rather than advocating worker protection.