Life, 1902-06-05 · page 3 of 22
Life — June 5, 1902 — page 3: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
# "Naval Supremacy" (Life Magazine, June) This page critiques American military spending priorities. The main article argues that naval supremacy isn't the only thing that matters—the nation also needs strong industries and financial stability. The author questions whether the military budget can sustainably relieve the Treasury of "more than one hundred and fifty millions per annum." The accompanying illustration shows a birdcage labeled "Mr. Potato Bug," depicting cramped conditions. The caption reads: "Gee, Mandy! I wish we'd bought some peanuts before we came to this zoo." This appears to be visual commentary on overcrowding or resource scarcity—possibly satirizing inadequate living conditions or supplies for military personnel, contrasting with expensive naval investments. The overall message criticizes prioritizing military hardware over soldiers' welfare and broader economic needs.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
Naval Supremacy. OME pretend to say that naval supremacy is not in our line, Butif not naval supremacy, what? The situation admits of no paltering. On the one hand, our infant industries will not stand for any reduction of taxation; they are just teething and need the money, On the other hand, river and harbor bills are more or less a broken reed ; there is no tellingywhen they won’t be talked to death or vetoed. As for pensions, it is doubtful if the Grand Army of the Republic can be got to relieve the Treasury of more than one hundred and fifty millions per annum, at the outside. Even with a general staff for the army, the surplus will look like anything rather than the thirty cents which financial authorities unite in declaring the only safe figure. In all candor, is not naval supremacy about the only thing? T° be natural, however artificial the circumstances, is the perfection of good manners. AN is a mysterious being with a wistful longing for the transcendental and three meals a day. Mr. Potato Bug: on, MANDY! 1 WiSiL WE'D BOCUNT SOME PEANUTS BEFORE WE CAME TO TIIIs 200. comicbooks.com