Judge — September 18, 1926 — page 14: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This Prohibition-era cartoon satirizes corrupt politicians. A tall, skeletal figure labeled "PROHIBITION" stands at center, surrounded by demons or devils representing various criminal enterprises: "BOOTLEGGER," "RUM RUNNER," "HIJACKER," "BANDIT," "SPEAK-EASY OWNER," and "GRAFTING POLITICIAN." The figures are toasting the central Prohibition figure with drinks and bottles, while singing the famous drinking song (ironically, given the subject). The satire mocks how Prohibition laws, intended to eliminate alcohol consumption, instead created a thriving criminal underworld and corrupted public officials who profited from illegal liquor trade. The cartoon suggests Prohibition's "success" merely enriched criminals and dishonest politicians—making it, perversely, a "jolly good fellow."