Life — July 30, 1903 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This is a satirical cartoon about early automobile racing at a speedway. The sign visible in the image reads "SPEEDWAY FOR MILLIONAIRES ONLY" with "RATE 60 MILES" (minimum speed requirement). The cartoon satirizes wealth inequality and exclusivity in early motor racing. Only wealthy individuals could afford both the expensive automobiles and the entry fees to this exclusive speedway. The multiple racing vehicles shown represent the elite participating in this high-speed sport while crowds watch from bleachers. The caption "WHERE THEY BELONG" suggests the cartoonist's commentary—that this dangerous activity is appropriately restricted to the wealthy, implying either that the rich deserve such risks or that they should stay separated from ordinary people. The satire critiques both the elitism of early motorsport and the dangerous nature of racing.