Judge — August 29, 1908 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Political Cartoon Analysis: "A Square Deal for Capital" This 1908 *Judge* cartoon satirizes President Theodore Roosevelt's famous "Square Deal" domestic policy. Two figures—labeled "Labor" (left) and "Capital" (right)—hold an envelope representing workers' wages. The caption cynically suggests that a "square deal for capital means a full pay envelope for labor"—implying the opposite of what Roosevelt promised. The satire critiques the perceived gap between Roosevelt's pro-labor rhetoric and actual outcomes favoring big business. The ornate Capitol building backdrop emphasizes government's role. The cartoon suggests that capital interests ultimately control labor policy despite presidential promises of fairness. The bottom text, "WHAT WE ALL WANT," adds ironic commentary on universal desires for economic justice.