Life — September 2, 1920 — page 15: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon depicts two men observing a large moose in water. One man holds binoculars and wears a "Progressive" badge, while the other is labeled "Hays." The moose itself appears grotesquely exaggerated with prominent antlers. The cartoon likely references the Progressive Party's 1912 presidential campaign (symbolized by the moose mascot). The "Hays" figure appears to be Will Hays, a Republican politician. The satire seems to mock the Progressives' pursuit of political power, suggesting their "moose call" (campaign appeal) is luring them toward something monstrous or dangerous. The imagery critiques the Progressive movement's ambitions during this politically fractious period.