Life — May 31, 1917 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is the cover of Life's "Forward, March Number," published during America's entry into World War I (declared April 1917). The allegorical female figure represents Liberty or America herself, raising a torch while wearing a Phrygian cap (a Revolutionary symbol). She stands triumphantly above marching soldiers visible in the background. The imagery celebrates American military mobilization and patriotic fervor at the war's outset. The composition echoes classical Liberty iconography, positioning the nation's cause as just and righteous. The artist's signature appears to read "Cobb" or similar. The overall message promotes American intervention as a patriotic imperative—"Life" magazine using its satirical platform to advocate for the military effort rather than critique it.