Life — September 17, 1914 — page 7: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Political Cartoon Analysis: "Feed America First" This satirical piece critiques American trade policy during or after World War I. The top illustration shows a seesaw labeled "LIFE," with a wealthy figure (likely representing American business interests or aristocracy) on one end and a common person on the other, balanced on a globe—suggesting unequal global economic power. The article argues against paying higher prices for imported goods while American citizens struggle. It questions why domestic prices should remain elevated to benefit exports when "national governments are granted the control over their exports." The lower sketch depicts wealthy socialites at leisure, captioned "The Fag-End of the Season / If We All Did As We Felt Inclined," sarcastically contrasting privileged indifference with ordinary Americans' economic hardship. The satire advocates prioritizing American working-class welfare over elite interests.