Judge — July 6, 1929 — page 11: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "He Knew What He Wanted" - Judge Magazine Cartoon This twelve-panel comic strip depicts a figure in judicial robes (the "Judge") engaged in fishing. The narrative shows him progressively catching larger fish, becoming increasingly animated and excited. In the middle panels, he consults with a gentleman in a top hat, appearing to discuss or celebrate his catches. The title "He Knew What He Wanted" suggests the Judge had a specific goal or outcome in mind from the start. The cartoon likely satirizes judicial corruption or predetermined verdicts—the judge "fishing" for a particular result rather than impartially weighing evidence. The wealthy-looking man in the top hat may represent a wealthy defendant or special interest influencing judicial decisions. This reflects Progressive Era concerns about corrupt judges serving powerful interests rather than justice.