Life — August 19, 1920 — page 25: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This 1920 political cartoon depicts an anthropomorphic lion (representing America/the "Bird of Freedom," though depicted as a lion) holding a document titled "Touching On and Appertaining To European Affairs." A ball labeled "Politics" is chained to the lion's leg. The satire critiques American political leaders' preoccupation with European matters during what appears to be an election cycle. The lion's statement—"Don't bother me, I am not free until after election"—suggests that domestic political concerns (the election) prevent America from freely addressing international affairs. The cartoon likely comments on how electoral politics constrains or distracts from foreign policy decisions, with the chained "Politics" ball emphasizing how political considerations bind the nation's actions.