Life — January 31, 1907 — page 13: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This cartoon by J.A. Williams depicts the tension between capital and labor—a central political conflict of the early 20th century. Two figures representing working-class people (identifiable by their shabby clothing and exhausted expressions) stand at a grand doorway, one carrying wood and supplies. The ornate door suggests wealth and establishment power. The title "Capital and Labor" indicates this illustrates the economic divide: laborers (the poor workers) seeking entry or assistance from those controlling capital (the wealthy represented by the imposing building). The satire critiques how working people were excluded from economic opportunity and power despite their essential contributions. This reflects Progressive Era concerns about income inequality and workers' rights.