Life — September 20, 1917 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This 1917 *Life* magazine cartoon depicts four children in front of a Gothic castle silhouette, with the caption "TIME TO JOIN SOMETHING." Published during World War I (the U.S. entered in April 1917), this appears to be propaganda encouraging civic participation or military support. The children represent different nationalities or backgrounds—one wears a cowboy hat (American), another a military-style uniform, a third appears European, and the fourth wears what seems immigrant or working-class attire. The "something" likely refers to patriotic organizations, war-related charities, or military service. The satire suggests that citizens of all backgrounds should unite for the war effort. The ominous castle backdrop may represent either the enemy or the larger historical moment consuming Europe.