Life — February 17, 1916 — page 4: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of "Who Says We Are Not Prepared?" This political cartoon depicts a line of caricatured figures wearing Uncle Sam hats, labeled "E PLURIBUS UNUM" (the national motto). They appear to represent American military or political leadership, drawn in an exaggerated, somewhat grotesque style typical of early 20th-century satirical cartooning. The caption "Who Says We Are Not Prepared?" is ironic—the cartoon likely critiques American military readiness or political leadership, suggesting these figures are *not* adequately prepared despite claims otherwise. The following text promotes "The American Number of Life," appealing to patriotic sentiment about loyalty and American ideals. This appears to be pre-war (likely WWI era) propaganda or commentary on American preparedness debates of that period, though specific historical context requires more dating information.