Life — February 8, 1917 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis: "Fiat Justitia, Ruat Coelum" (Let Justice Be Done, Though the Heavens Fall) This 1917 *Life* magazine cartoon satirizes the American legal system. A massive female figure labeled "Justice" presides over a courtroom. On the left, "Twelve Men" (the jury) observe proceedings; on the right, "Good True" citizens witness the scene. Below, figures appearing to be lawyers or judges seem to be manipulating or controlling the judicial process, with one holding what appears to be a money bag. The Latin motto and composition suggest the cartoon critiques how actual justice becomes compromised—corrupted by money and powerful interests despite Justice's noble appearance above. The satirical point: American courts fail to deliver true justice when wealth and influence interfere with the legal process. This reflects Progressive Era concerns about judicial corruption.