Judge — September 1, 1917 — page 15: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This Judge magazine cartoon depicts a bustling public carnival or fair promoting civic contributions during what appears to be World War I. The title "If We All Did Our Little Bit" references the patriotic slogan encouraging Americans to support the war effort through various means. The scene shows multiple booths and attractions: War Loans, Liberty Bonds, a recruiting station, and displays labeled with military and civilian activities. A "City Prison" section appears on the right with inmates visible behind bars—likely sarcastically suggesting that those not contributing to war efforts belong in jail. The cartoon satirizes how thoroughly war mobilization penetrated American civilian life, turning public spaces into recruitment and fundraising venues. It mocks the pressure on citizens to demonstrate patriotic commitment through financial and military participation, implying that refusing to "do your bit" was socially unacceptable or even criminal.