Judge — February 20, 1915 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of Judge Magazine Cover, February 20, 1915 This political cartoon depicts the opening of the Panama Canal, which occurred in 1914. "The Golden Gate is Open. Welcome!" references the canal's completion and international significance. The central female figure appears to be Lady Liberty or a personification of America, crowned and welcoming ships through massive gates. The "Gaelic Coast" reference on her crown likely indicates Irish or European maritime interests. Below, various ships—both military and commercial vessels—pass through the canal, with smoke and activity suggesting bustling trade. The cartoon celebrates American engineering achievement and the canal's role in facilitating global commerce and naval operations. This reflects American pride in the canal as a major technological and geopolitical accomplishment, positioning the U.S. as a welcoming commercial and naval power.