Life — July 31, 1913 — page 4: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of "War Number of Life is Coming" This page announces a special October issue of *Life* magazine devoted to war and peace. The central illustration depicts an allegorical lion (representing Great Britain, marked with its flag) restrained by a bear (likely Russia), while eagles perch nearby. Below them are fortifications labeled with the flags of the United States, Germany, and France, with "RUSSIA" crossed out at the base. The satire warns of impending conflict, presenting major world powers in confrontation. The *Life* editors invite contributions on war themes, offering a $300 prize for the best article under 500 words. This appears to be pre-WWI or WWI-era propaganda, using animal symbolism to visualize geopolitical tensions among European and American powers.