Life — November 2, 1899 — page 5: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# October 1898 Life Magazine Political Cartoons This page satirizes Admiral George Dewey's return to America following the Spanish-American War. The top cartoon, "Dewey's Welcome," depicts celebratory figures with an American flag welcoming the victorious naval commander home from the Philippines. The middle cartoon, "Some More Benevolent Assimilation," shows a large bear attacking a small figure—likely satirizing American imperial expansion in the Philippines under the guise of "benevolent assimilation," the phrase used to justify U.S. colonization. The bottom cartoon, "A Business Trip," appears to depict political or commercial scheming related to post-war opportunities, possibly criticizing how politicians exploited Dewey's popularity or war profits. The cartoons collectively critique American imperialism and opportunism during the Spanish-American War period.