Life — December 25, 1919 — page 25: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This **Life magazine** cartoon titled "The Mexican Question" depicts a heavily armed Mexican revolutionary or bandit figure—identifiable by the wide sombrero, cartridge belts, and rifle—confronting the viewer with the challenging question "What are you going to do about it?" The satire likely addresses American foreign policy concerns regarding Mexico, probably referencing revolutionary turmoil or border tensions from the early 20th century (the Mexican Revolution era, roughly 1910-1920). The cartoon presents Mexico as a threatening, armed challenge to American interests or stability. The artistic style uses caricature to emphasize the militaristic menace. The satirical point appears to be mocking American indecision or hesitation in responding to Mexican instability—posing the uncomfortable question back to American policymakers about their actual plans or resolve.