Life — February 26, 1891 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Political Cartoon Analysis This appears to be a satirical cartoon criticizing American Indian policy, likely from the late 19th or early 20th century. The main image depicts Native Americans in distress near a body of water, with a sign reading "SAVE THE RESERVATION" visible. The inset circular panel labeled "AT THE INDIAN'S EXPENSE" shows two well-dressed men (likely government officials or politicians) dining comfortably, connected to the main scene via an "INDIAN SUPPLY TUBE"—a visual metaphor suggesting that resources meant for Native Americans were being diverted to benefit corrupt officials. The artist (F.T. Richards) is criticizing government mismanagement and embezzlement of Indian welfare funds, contrasting the poverty and death depicted above with the comfortable enrichment of those administering Indian affairs.