Judge — January 1, 1921 — page 4: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of Judge Magazine Cartoon This cartoon by **Walter De Maris** depicts an industrial factory scene with two well-dressed men—apparently an employer and worker or labor representative—having a heated exchange. The caption reads: *"My employees have clubbed together and taken a half-interest in the concern. That's nothing. My employees never did have but a half-interest in my concern."* The satire targets **labor-management relations**, likely from the early 20th century. The joke criticizes employers who claim workers lack genuine investment or commitment to their jobs. The irony is that even when workers literally purchase ownership stakes in their company, the employer dismisses their involvement—suggesting workers were never truly motivated anyway. This reflects contemporary debates about **worker profit-sharing schemes** and labor's struggle for recognition and fair treatment.