Life — October 17, 1912 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "The Unmasking: What Some of Us Really Are" (Life, 1912) This political cartoon depicts figures in formal dress revealing their animal heads—a visual metaphor for exposing politicians' "true natures." The accompanying article discusses Colonel Roosevelt's recent activities and upcoming election prospects, suggesting the cartoon satirizes political hypocrisy during the 1912 election cycle. The text references "Brother Bryan" (likely William Jennings Bryan), Roosevelt, Taft, and various Democratic and Republican political maneuvers. The article criticizes Colonel Hearst's involvement in politics while defending Roosevelt's campaign efforts and suggesting his opponents should "not be discouraged." The "unmasking" metaphor suggests the cartoon is about revealing hidden character flaws or true intentions beneath politicians' respectable public appearances—a common satirical device in Progressive Era political commentary.