Life — April 22, 1897 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "America's Greeting" - Life Magazine, April 22, 1897 This satirical cartoon depicts America as a cannon-wielding guard protecting "the Art and Literature of the World" behind a "Keep Off!" sign. The sign warns of a "25% fine for landing here"—likely referencing recent American tariff policies protecting domestic industries. The figure manning the cannon appears to represent American protectionism or isolationism. The large cannon itself symbolizes American military/economic power being used defensively. The ornate left border with classical medallions suggests Old World culture being kept at arm's length. The satire critiques American trade barriers and cultural gatekeeping in the 1890s—suggesting America was using economic force to exclude foreign competition while simultaneously guarding itself as a bastion of civilization. The "fine for landing" makes the protectionist policy explicit.