Life — February 1, 1917 — page 2: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This page is **not a cartoon or satire** — it's a straightforward corporate advertisement for the New York Life Insurance Company, appearing in Life magazine in 1916. The content presents the company's annual financial statement, highlighting: - $263 million in new paid business - $138 million total income - Strong asset reserves of $866 million A notable section tracks "actual mortality" against "expected" death losses from 1912-1916, showing the company performed better than mortality tables predicted — even during World War I (note the parenthetical "12 mos. of war" for 1916). The "Significant Facts" section emphasizes improved efficiency: reduced mortality rates, reduced expenses, and increased interest earnings. This is corporate propaganda designed to reassure policyholders of the company's financial strength and competent management.