Judge — November 22, 1919 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis: "Off His Perch for One Day" This Thanksgiving-themed cover from November 22, 1919 depicts an eagle perched atop a shield bearing stars and stripes—classic American patriotic symbols. A turkey stands beside it, looking at the eagle. The cartoon's caption, "Off His Perch for One Day," suggests a role reversal or holiday respite. The joke appears to be that on Thanksgiving, the eagle (representing American authority/government) temporarily steps aside, allowing the turkey—the traditional holiday bird destined for the dinner table—a brief moment of prominence or freedom before its fate. This is a lighthearted visual pun playing on the holiday's traditions rather than a political commentary. The artist is Orson Lowell.