Judge — November 1937 — page 10: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Political Cartoon Analysis This Judge magazine cartoon depicts a coach (left, standing) addressing his football team in a stadium, asking for volunteers "to carry the ball." The humor lies in a double meaning: while literally requesting players willing to take possession during the game, the phrase "carry the ball" was a common idiom meaning to take responsibility for an initiative or cause. The cartoon appears to satirize leadership or civic duty—likely commenting on reluctance among men to take on responsibility or risk, whether in sports, military service, or public affairs. The players' hesitation to volunteer suggests unwillingness to shoulder burden or responsibility when called upon. Without the publication date visible, the specific historical reference remains unclear, though the style suggests early-to-mid 20th century.