Life — April 19, 1917 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of "The New Army Will Be Popular" This page discusses changing American attitudes toward the military profession. The article argues that soldiers have historically been regarded poorly by American civilians, viewed as lacking ability or moral character. The author contends this prejudice is changing as the country recognizes military service's necessity. The accompanying cartoon depicts a suburbanite reluctantly lending his lawn mower to a soldier, with the caption emphasizing he'll never let it leave the place—a humorous commentary on American civilian reluctance to share or commit to military needs. The broader point: post-war America must develop greater respect for military service and integrate military training into civilian education to build national strength and prepare young men for potential future conflicts.