Life — August 14, 1919 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Advertisement Analysis This is a **Weed Anti-Skid Chains advertisement**, not satire. The page uses dramatic illustration to promote tire chains for winter driving safety. The top illustration shows two men demonstrating what happens during a "skid"—a tire spinning uselessly and losing traction. The text explains that skidding damages tires and causes inevitable punctures and blowouts. The bottom shows a car that has skidded or crashed, reinforcing the danger message. The advertisement argues that Weed Anti-Skid Chains prevent this by improving traction, especially on wet and slippery roads. The tagline "Every time you skid" emphasizes frequency and danger. **American Chain Company, Inc.** (based in Bridgeport, Connecticut) marketed these chains as essential winter safety equipment, urging customers to install them "at the first drop of rain."