Life — February 5, 1920 — page 11: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "You'll Do" - Life Magazine Cartoon This cartoon depicts a U.S. military recruiter (identifiable by his uniform and the "U.S." and "Co." signs visible in the storefront) examining a young boy who has responded to a "Boy Wanted" sign. The recruiter appears to be inspecting the boy with a magnifying glass or similar tool, seemingly assessing his suitability. The satire likely critiques either military recruitment practices of the era or commentary on child labor and exploitation. The title "You'll Do" suggests the recruiter will accept whoever applies, regardless of qualifications or age—implying either desperation for recruits or cynical indifference to standards. The cartoon reflects early 20th-century concerns about who the military was enlisting and under what circumstances.