Life — December 2, 1897 — page 5: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# November Political Satire from Life Magazine This page presents November 1900s satirical sketches mocking contemporary political and social figures. The central image shows a pirate at the helm of a ship labeled "S.S. New York," holding a skull-and-crossbones flag reading "To Hell with Reform"—likely criticizing corrupt New York politics or governance. Surrounding vignettes include "Charge of the Gurkhas" (referencing British colonial military), "Funny Old Kansas," and "Mounting of the Terkes Telescope." Other sketches mock "Thanksgiving Thoughts" and reference "Who Piously Sells What Isn't Wish Soon or Late Will Go to Prison." The overall theme appears to satirize political corruption, reform failures, and various contemporary scandals, though specific figures and events remain unclear without additional historical context.