Judge — May 28, 1927 — page 15: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This editorial cartoon critiques American foreign policy toward China during the early 20th century. The "Judge" (representing American authority/opinion) sits on the bench, seemingly above reproach. The text by W.M.H. attacks what it calls hypocritical "sentimentality" in America's China relations. It argues Americans falsely claim moral superiority while pursuing imperial interests identical to European powers—demanding trade access, refusing Chinese sovereignty, and grabbing territorial concessions. The piece sarcastically notes America adopted an "Open Door policy" toward China while simultaneously refusing to grant China actual autonomy or equal treatment. It suggests American moralizing about democracy and freedom rings hollow when paired with practical imperialism. The satire targets American self-righteousness about its foreign relations compared to European rivals.