Judge — October 16, 1926 — page 14: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon depicts the Prohibition debate in early 20th-century America. The central figure labeled "Congress" aims a cannon labeled "Repeal" at Lady Liberty, who stands on a pedestal labeled "Liberty." A small figure labeled "Prohibition" drowns in rough waters below, while Uncle Sam (in military dress, right) observes. The cartoon criticizes Congress's consideration of repealing Prohibition, suggesting this action threatens American liberty itself. The famous quote "You may fire when ready, Gridley!" (from the Spanish-American War) invokes patriotic language to frame the repeal vote as a consequential national moment. The drowning Prohibition figure suggests reformers' disappointment at the amendment's potential collapse. The satire ultimately opposes repeal, viewing it as destructive to the nation's moral foundation and freedoms.