Life — February 19, 1903 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of Life Magazine Cover, February 19, 1903 This satirical cartoon depicts a well-dressed man in a top hat confronting two dogs. The caption reads "Lest We Forget" with dialogue: "Theodore, I will remember when you were little and more or less decent." The figure appears to be **Theodore Roosevelt**, identifiable by the caricatured features and top hat typical of Rooseveltian depictions. The cartoon likely critiques Roosevelt's political evolution or behavior—suggesting he was once principled ("little and more or less decent") but has since changed course. The dogs likely symbolize political opponents or allies he's turned against. This reflects early-1903 tensions during Roosevelt's presidency regarding trust-busting, conservation policies, or political alliances. The "Lest We Forget" caption ironically warns that history remembers his earlier, better self.