Life — June 19, 1913 — page 27: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon depicts a large crowd of children holding a sign reading "CHILD LABORERS." The caption reads: "We just want to grow up." The satire criticizes child labor practices, likely from the early-to-mid 20th century when such exploitation was common. The children's simple statement—merely wanting to mature normally—contrasts sharply with their circumstances as laborers. The artist uses the crowd's size and youth to evoke sympathy and highlight how systemic child labor prevented normal childhood development. The cartoon advocates for child labor reform by presenting children as victims who deserve basic rights to grow up without exploitation. This reflects Progressive Era concerns about protecting children from industrial work conditions.