Life — November 3, 1910 — page 21: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon depicts Uncle Sam (the personification of America, identifiable by his characteristic top hat and goatee) being led by a skeletal figure holding a scythe—a symbol of Death. The caption "Do you follow me, Sam?" suggests Death is literally directing American policy. The cartoon critiques "the New Nationalism," likely referring to nationalist or imperialist policies of the early 20th century. The satire warns that blind allegiance to aggressive nationalism leads America toward destruction and death. The skeletal leader's position ahead of Uncle Sam emphasizes that following such policies is self-destructive. The figure being pulled along represents American citizens unknowingly complicit in this dangerous direction.