Judge — August 16, 1924 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This is the cover of Judge magazine's "Ku Klux Number" from August 16, 1924. The illustration depicts a robed KKK figure with two black oval holes for eyes, beneath the caption "THE LITTLE BOY WHO USED TO HIDE BEHIND HIS MOTHER'S SKIRT." The satire appears to mock the KKK as cowardly—comparing the organization to a timid child hiding for protection. By 1924, the KKK was experiencing a resurgence and political influence, particularly in Midwestern and Northern states. Judge magazine, a satirical publication, uses this cover to ridicule the Klan's membership and ideology, suggesting that despite their intimidating appearance and violent reputation, they are fundamentally cowardly and dependent, not genuinely powerful.