Life — May 29, 1913 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "The Story of the Flag" - Life Magazine, May 29, 1913 This cartoon by Naldman Price depicts Uncle Sam (the wizened figure in the starred top hat and American flag coat) instructing a younger soldier or citizen about American patriotism. The exaggerated caricature and grotesque features suggest satirical commentary on American nationalism or military policy circa 1913. The newspapers and documents visible in the background likely reference contemporary political issues. The title "The Story of the Flag" and the teaching gesture suggest the cartoon critiques how national mythology is constructed or transmitted—perhaps questioning what version of American history and values is being promoted to younger generations. The specific political context remains unclear without additional information about 1913 events, though this likely relates to pre-World War I American interventionism debates.